big shot

noun

Informal.

1. an important or influential person.

big shot

noun

1. informal,  an important or influential person

Word History and Origins

Origin of big shot¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Idioms and Phrases

see under big cheese.

Example Sentences

On “Father Figure,” Swift sings about a big shot taking a “protégé” under their wing—and demanding total loyalty in return.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

These days Joel isn’t Anthony or Mama Leone or even Mr. Cacciatore — he’s the big shot who owns the medical center, not to mention whatever else is available on Sullivan Street.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Drops, coming to the net, big shots, and we stayed there the whole match.

Read more on BBC

The style is fitting since the modern world doesn’t make many men like this anymore, only ones who posture like big shots.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“It’s a big shot in the arm,” manager Dave Roberts said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bigwig 
• dignitary 
• heavyweight 
• mogul