Triumphantly. To complete something in a favorable or advantageous position; to win. She's been preparing for months because she's determined to win this year's marathon. Also see: come, on, out, and top. Fig. to emerge as the victor. The company came out on top in the bidding war. To stand supreme or highest among others; to be first in rank or priority; to prevail. He came out on top at chess so he bought the car. I had to stay home from school because I was sick. They said Tom's book didn't come out until after you died...so it must have been Thomas who came out on top! To succeed in business or other endeavor; to obtain profit or victory. His plan worked: they made all of their sales before Christmas. It's not clear who won the race, but many people claim to have finished it. To cause to arise; to produce. Her painting came out beautifully. He came out singing with an angel on his shoulder. To say that something comes out is to say that it appears or is visible. Colors can appear bright or dark compared to their surroundings, for example. A color photo will capture many more colors than what we see with our eyes alone. Colors also come out when objects are reflected in mirrors or windows.