The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

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.
   [1913 Webster]

The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Top-dressing \Top"-dress`ing\, n.
   The act of applying a dressing of manure to the surface of
   land; also, manure so applied.
   [1913 Webster]

The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Dressing \Dress"ing\, n.
   1. Dress; raiment; especially, ornamental habiliment or
      attire. --B. Jonson.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. (Surg.) An application (a remedy, bandage, etc.) to cover
      a sore or wound. --Wiseman.
      [1913 Webster]

   3. Manure or compost over land. When it remains on the
      surface, it is called a top-dressing.
      [1913 Webster]

   4. (Cookery)
      (a) A preparation, such as a sauce, to flavor food for
          eating; a condiment; as, a dressing for salad.
      (b) The stuffing of fowls, pigs, etc.; forcemeat.
          [1913 Webster]

   5. Gum, starch, and the like, used in stiffening or finishing
      silk, linen, and other fabrics.
      [1913 Webster]

   6. An ornamental finish, as a molding around doors, windows,
      or on a ceiling, etc.
      [1913 Webster]

   7. Castigation; scolding; -- often with down. [Colloq.]
      [1913 Webster]

   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.

   Top-dressing, manure or compost spread over land and not
      worked into the soil.
      [1913 Webster]