big top

noun

1. the largest or main tent of a circus.
2. a circus.

big top

noun

1. the main tent of a circus
2. the circus itself

Word History and Origins

Origin of big top¹

An Americanism dating back to 1890–95

Example Sentences

So now the big top comes down and rest in peace, Michael Jackson.

From The Daily Beast

In the summer, with the Big Top, I often simulated the ringmaster to make announcements from the center ring.

From Project Gutenberg

Here it was that he found a little man muffled up to the ears in a big top coat, standing before the dying fire.

From Project Gutenberg

From the street parade to Polly's first appearance in the "big top," had seemed a short while to Jim and Toby.

From Project Gutenberg

At any rate, let's go out to the circus lot, even if we do not get inside the Big Top.

From Project Gutenberg

As he had been told to do outside the big top, he dropped a handkerchief which slowly fluttered down to the ground below.

From Project Gutenberg