Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
noun
- the highest level in rank, excellence, or importance: a musician strictly out of the top drawer.
noun
- people of the highest standing, esp socially (esp in the phrase out of the top drawer)
Of the highest quality, importance, or rank, as in The musicians in this pick-up orchestra were top drawer. It probably alludes to the uppermost drawer in a bureau or chest, where the most valuable objects (such as jewelry) are usually kept. [c. 1900]