big tree

American  

[big tree] / ˈbɪg ˈtri /

noun

1. giant sequoia.

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big tree British  

noun

1. Also called: giant sequoia.   wellingtonia.  a giant Californian coniferous tree, Sequoiadendron giganteum , with a wide tapering trunk and thick spongy bark: family Taxodiaceae . It often reaches a height of 90 metres See also sequoia

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Etymology

Origin of big tree

An Americanism dating back to 1850–55

Example Sentences

Sloterbeck has been surveying regional Christmas tree sellers since 2003, an idea that came from a Colorado-based client whose family owned a big tree farm.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 19, 2025

Reba McEntire heads to New York to host a two-hour special, highlighted by the lighting of a really big tree in the network’s own backyard.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 18, 2025

"I'm seeing a lot more trees down. And there's a big tree that just fell over there, and I probably shouldn't be out here."

From Reuters • Aug. 21, 2023

“There’s a big tree that survived this,” Churchill said, pointing to the pine.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 6, 2022

Papa pulled in front and Francie and Neeley pushed in back and they began forcing the big tree up the three narrow flights of stairs.

From "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith