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What does "over the top" mean?

  1. Surpassing a goal or quota, as in The new salesmen are excellent; they were over the top within the first six months. [Mid-1900s]
  2. Over the parapet of a military trench, as in The lieutenant sent fresh troops over the top. This usage dates from World War I.
  3. Extreme, outrageous, as in This comedian's style goes over the top. [Slang; late 1900s]

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