Definition: "Above the hole" describes the position of a golf ball in relation to the cup, or hole, once the ball is on the green.
If the green slopes, or if the hole is cut in a position on the green that slopes, being above the hole with your approach shot or lag putt is a no-no.
Above the hole means that your ball is positioned such that you will be putting downhill to the cup. Downhill putts are particularly tricky, so you want to avoid being above the hole.
"Above the hole" is the opposite of "below the hole."
Examples:
The Golf Guide has a tricky putt left since he left his ball above the hole.
