Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Top-dress \Top"-dress`\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Top-dressed}; p.
   pr. & vb. n. {Top-dressing}.]
   To apply a surface dressing of manureto,as land.

Top-dressing \Top"-dress`ing\, n.
   The act of applying a dressing of manure to the surface of
   land; also, manure so applied.

Dressing \Dress"ing\, n.
   1. Dress; raiment; especially, ornamental habiliment or
      attire. --B. Jonson.

   2. (Surg.) An application (a remedy, bandage, etc.) to a sore
      or wound. --Wiseman.

   3. Manure or compost over land. When it remains on the
      surface, it is called a top-dressing.

   4. (Cookery)
      (a) A preparation to fit food for use; a condiment; as, a
          dressing for salad.
      (b) The stuffing of fowls, pigs, etc.; forcemeat.

   5. Gum, starch, and the like, used in stiffening or finishing
      silk, linen, and other fabrics.

   6. An ornamental finish, as a molding around doors, windows,
      or on a ceiling, etc.

   7. Castigation; scolding; -- often with down. [Colloq.]

   {Dressing case}, a case of toilet utensils.

   {Dressing forceps}, a variety of forceps, shaped like a pair
      of scissors, used in dressing wounds.

   {Dressing gown}, a light gown, such as is used by a person
      while dressing; a study gown.

   {Dressing room}, an apartment appropriated for making one's
      toilet.

   {Dressing table}, a table at which a person may dress, and on
      which articles for the toilet stand.

   {Top-dressing}, manure or compost spread over land and not
      worked into the soil.