At the top/bottom of the heap Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Achievement Image Recognizes someone's success or high status after a period of hard work. She was only an intern, but now she is at the top of the heap in her field. Pro Tip 2/3Might Sound Boastful Using this can imply bragging. Be mindful in modest cultures. I don't mean to brag, but I'm now at the top of the heap in my department. Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Context It's often used metaphorically to speak about societal or professional hierarchy. In the business world, she quickly rose to the top of the heap.