This idiom means to “be or act in clear opposition to something else.”

The phrase “top the bill” refers to being the premier or most prominent performer in an entertainment event such as a concert, play, film, or show.

"Roadkill" refers to one that falls victim to intense competition.

"Spike one's guns" means "to ruin one's plans or prevent one's success."

"Pipe down" means to “shut up, be quiet.” On sailing ships signals were given to the crew by sounding the boatswain’s pipe. One such was “piping down the hammocks” which was the signal to go below decks and retire for the night. When an officer wanted a sailor to be dismissed below he would have him “piped down.”

"Read the room" means “to use one’s intuition to analyze the general mood of the people in a particular setting and act accordingly.” It’s often used as an imperative.

"Pro tempore" signifies “limited in time, but less fleeting than what is temporary.” The short form “pro tem” is also commonly used.

"Put the kibosh on" means to stop or end something, or to prevent something from happening or continuing.