How to Pronounce "top of the hour"
expression
TAHP-uhv-thuh-OWR
TOP-uhv-thuh-OW-uh
Definition
The very beginning of an hour, when the minute hand is exactly at 12, or when a new hour starts (for example, 1:00, 2:00). Often used in schedules, broadcasting, or announcements.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈtɑp/, /ˈtɔp/ /ˈəv/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈaʊɝ/, /ˈaʊɹ
British English
tˈɒp/ /ˈɒv/ /ðə, ði/ /ˈaʊə
Simplified Pronunciation
US
TAHP-uhv-thuh-OWR
UK
TOP-uhv-thuh-OW-uh
Listen in Context
The show starts at the top of the hour.
We present the news at the top of the hour.
Please call me back at the top of the hour.
Traffic updates come every top of the hour during rush hour.