big shot

noun

, Informal.

1. an important or influential person.

big shot

noun

1. informal.
   an important or influential person

Word History and Origins

Origin of big shot¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Idioms and Phrases

see under big cheese .

Example Sentences

As a Cy Young Award-winning rookie pitcher in 1981, Valenzuela forever changed the makeup of the Dodgers’ fan base, but he never behaved as if he was a big shot in the media dining room.

From Los Angeles Times

I don't think it's wise taking big shots from AJ and analysing Dubois' last few fights - even though he's come through in great fashion he also took quite a lot of damage.

From BBC

So all the TV big shots were stuck sitting there, “daiquiris in hand, but nothing to televise,” Neushul said.

From Los Angeles Times

You just know what it feels like to be there and put so much effort into it and this is your big shot.

From Los Angeles Times

Calling it a typographical error, Westheimer acknowledged, “Even big shot people like myself make mistakes.”

From Los Angeles Times