big name

¹

noun

1. a person who has a preeminent public reputation in a specified field:

   He's a big name in education.

big-name

²

[ big-neym ]

adjective

1. having a widespread public reputation as a leader in a specified field; famous:

   a big-name doctor; a big-name actress.

2. of, relating to, or composed of a big-name person or persons.

big name

noun

1. informal.
   1. a famous person
   2. ( as modifier )

      a big-name performer

Word History and Origins

Origin of big name¹

An Americanism dating back to 1930–35

Origin of big name²

An Americanism dating back to 1925–30

Example Sentences

Of the potential opponents brainstormed for Paul, Netflix was most interested in Tyson, a big name who could draw longtime boxing fans and viewers outside the sport.

From Los Angeles Times

The big name politicians who once backed Gascón are gone and most of his donors have vanished, with Hochman out-fundraising and outspending the incumbent 11 to 1.

From Los Angeles Times

Thomas Tuchel is available having left Bayern Munich at the end of last season and the German would be the big name that many supporters crave.

From BBC

For Kinnings’ tour there is a future, if they can buy their way out of the strategic alliance, that potentially involves more money, more big name players and probably more sponsorship.

From BBC

It means Joshua will fight again, but we won't know exactly who he will face – a big name or easier comeback opponent - until Usyk-Fury 2 has happened.

From BBC