top-down

top-down (not comparable)

1. Of or relating to a hierarchical system that progresses from a single, large basic unit to multiple, smaller subunits.
2. Produced, controlled, or directed by those at the top of the hierarchy (the upper echelons).
   • 2019, Li Huang, James Lambert, “Another Arrow for the Quiver: A New Methodology for Multilingual Researchers”, in Journal of Multilingual and Multicultural Development, →DOI, page 6:

     Overall the signage at NIE has the appearance being a top-down artefact driven by institutional policy with English set as the default language.

3. (video games) Presenting the player with an aerial view.

   a top-down shooter

4. (automotive, of a drop top) With the convertible top down.

   a top-down ride

• bottom-up

• (hierarchical): top brass, top dogs
• (convertible): open-top, open-topped

• bird's-eye view