1. To move up to or toward the uppermost point of something. Fat from the beef will rise to the top in an unappetizing foam, so be sure to skim this off as the stew cooks. As the solution cools, the lighter elements will begin rising to the top.

2. To reach the most prominent position in some group, organization, company, etc. He started in the law firm as a mail clerk, spending his next 20 years rising to the top. She eventually rose to the top in the navy, becoming the first female four-star admiral.