bigwig

[ big-wig ]

noun

, Informal.

1. an important person, especially an official:

   senators and other political bigwigs.

bigwig

/ ˈbɪɡˌwɪɡ /

noun

1. informal.
   an important person

Other Words From

• bigwigged adjective
• big·wig·ged·ness [big, -, wig, -id-nis], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of bigwig¹

First recorded in 1725–35; rhyming compound from phrase big wig, i.e., person important enough to wear such a wig

Example Sentences

Relying on her street smarts, she rebrands as a corporate bigwig, but re-encounters a secret from her past that makes her re-evaluate the life she wants.

From Time

We can even let those business bigwigs think it was all their idea.

From Time

Trend forecasters and market researchers tip off these bigwig confectioners with ideas for delectable new treats.

From Popular-Science

Just two months after the first gulag prisoners had arrived at the future dam site in Dubna, in November 1933, research bigwigs at the Academy of Sciences of the Soviet Union gathered in Moscow to discuss the state of the Volga and the Caspian Sea.

From MIT Technology Review

Which is why Hershey and other candy bigwigs are investing in Bonumose, a Virginia-based startup with a technology that could pave the way for mass market adoption of sugary substitutes.

From Ozy

Robert Downey Jr. plays the son, a bigwig Chicago attorney who proudly defends wealthy white-collar criminals.

From The Daily Beast

Local bigwig Jim Rennie (Dean Norris), a used-car salesman and councilman, looks to use the dome to seize control of the town.

From The Daily Beast

That's a bigwig Republican talking, a man who ran for statewide office in New York and possibly will again.

From The Daily Beast

I am told he is a professor, orator, and author, whose ambition makes him the slave of every bigwig.

From Project Gutenberg

He heard me out, looked at my deceased poppies, and arranged a conference with a bigwig from the State Department.

From Project Gutenberg

Well, Monsieur Bigwig, the dancing teacher, you know of him.

From Project Gutenberg

"I bet you've drawn that Chinese bigwig that's booked from here," said the captain, grinning.

From Project Gutenberg

The Assistant Secretary is here to discuss the hot-dog concession with a local bigwig.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• mogul