bigwig

noun

big·​wig ˈbig-ˌwig How to pronounce bigwig (audio)
: an important person

Examples of bigwig in a Sentence

a bigwig in local politics interviewed by several bigwigs on the hospital's staff
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
His trial is attended by the likes of Judd Apatow, Seth Rogen, and other Hollywood bigwigs who claim Homer’s robbing them creatively and financially. Jesse David Fox, Vulture, 17 Dec. 2024 And at a benefit auction Thursday night, her philanthropic work got a boost from her boyfriend Benny Blanco, performers Karol G and Teddy Swims, and emcee Billy Crudup, who lent their star power and nudged entertainment industry bigwigs to open up their pocketbooks for the cause. Kimi Robinson, USA TODAY, 25 Oct. 2024 Yet even if a midlevel commander, military bigwig, or senior leader is killed, deputies wait in the wings and fighters can continue attacks. Sarah E. Parkinson, Foreign Affairs, 11 Nov. 2024 The bigwig’s beliefs and way of life present a stark contrast to those of his scrimping and saving father, who is heavily dependent on the kindness of family, friends and strangers. Alissa Simon, Variety, 25 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for bigwig 

Word History

First Known Use

1703, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bigwig was in 1703

Dictionary Entries Near bigwig

Cite this Entry

“Bigwig.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bigwig. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

bigwig

noun
big·​wig ˈbig-ˌwig How to pronounce bigwig (audio)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!