bigwig
Bigwig (noun) means an important or influential person within an organization. Example: “A few company bigwigs flew in for the announcement.”
How to use bigwig
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA powerful or high-ranking person, usually said a little mockingly.
Informal and slightly humorous — not used in formal writing.
Word forms
bigwigs plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A few company _____ flew in for the announcement.
Etymology
Coined in the 1730s from big + wig, playing on the fact that important English men of the era wore large, elaborate wigs as a sign of status.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “bigwig” mean?
The word “bigwig” means an important or influential person within an organization. In plain terms, a powerful or high-ranking person, usually said a little mockingly.
How do you pronounce “bigwig”?
“Bigwig” is pronounced BIHG-wihg (/ˈbɪɡ.wɪɡ/ in IPA).
How do you use “bigwig” in a sentence?
Here is “bigwig” used in a sentence: “A few company bigwigs flew in for the announcement.”
What part of speech is “bigwig”?
“Bigwig” is a noun.
Where does the word “bigwig” come from?
The word “bigwig” dates back to around 1730. Coined in the 1730s from big + wig, playing on the fact that important English men of the era wore large, elaborate wigs as a sign of status.