big kahuna
Americannoun
Etymology
Origin of big kahuna
First recorded in 1955–60; see origin at big 1 ( def. ), kahuna ( def. )
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"Given the interest of the majority of states in pursuing this issue, we think it's only appropriate that the big kahuna, the federal government, take action as well."
From Salon • Aug. 19, 2024
Still, there were others: The heart-tugging “CODA” had a great night, winning best supporting actor, best adapted screenplay and the big kahuna, best picture, ending the ceremony on an ebullient note.
From Seattle Times • Mar. 28, 2022
The Rebate Project, though, is the big kahuna.
From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 23, 2021
Golf's upper echelon is lush with firepower and a compelling argument can be made for a number of players as the current big kahuna.
From Golf Digest • Nov. 6, 2018
This fall will bring a gold rush of books by and about musicians, with Bruce Springsteen’s memoir as the big kahuna.
From New York Times • Aug. 29, 2016
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
