marquee

American  

[mahr-kee] / mɑrˈki /

noun

1. a tall rooflike projection above a theater entrance, usually containing the name of a currently featured play or film and its stars.

2. a rooflike shelter, as of glass, projecting above an outer door and over a sidewalk or a terrace.

3. British. Also a large tent or tentlike shelter with open sides, especially one for temporary use in outdoor entertainments, receptions, etc.

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adjective

1. superlative; headlining.

   a marquee basketball player.

marquee British  

/ mɑːˈkiː /

noun

1. a large tent used for entertainment, exhibition, etc

2. Also called: marquise.  a canopy over the entrance to a theatre, hotel, etc

3. (modifier) celebrated or pre-eminent

   a marquee player

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Etymology

Origin of marquee

1680–90; assumed singular of marquise, taken as plural

Example Sentences

Govan also credits Geffen Galleries with bringing in the kind of art that only a marquee building constructed to last could attract.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

Economists’ next chance to forecast a marquee stat comes on Friday in March’s inflation figures.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

West, who now goes by Ye, was named last week as the marquee performer for the music festival.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

But despite her talent and growing collection of titles, Dubois still lacks the marquee victory that could elevate her profile.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

“Your friend is not pleased to see me,” said Krum as they entered the now packed marquee.

From "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling