bigwig

[ big-wig ]

noun

, Informal.

1. an important person, especially an official:

   senators and other political bigwigs.

bigwig

/ ˈbɪɡˌwɪɡ /

noun

1. informal.
   an important person

Other Words From

• bigwigged adjective
• big·wig·ged·ness [big, -, wig, -id-nis], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of bigwig¹

First recorded in 1725–35; rhyming compound from phrase big wig, i.e., person important enough to wear such a wig

Example Sentences

After “Dog Eat Dog,” a dreamy yet percussive soft-rock song about “snakebite evangelists and racketeers and bigwig financiers,” Mitchell said she wished she could vote in the upcoming presidential election.

From Los Angeles Times

Allred has also built a bipartisan coalition, securing the support of both his party’s left-wing bigwigs and prominent Republicans who have soured on Cruz.

From Salon

Dimon's denial, through reps, came after Trump shared a screenshot of unknown provenance on Truth Social with the claim that his campaign had the backing of the banking bigwig.

From Salon

As is typical, Wall Street bigwigs will opine on financial markets, asset management and other topics.

From Los Angeles Times

Not long ago, a TV news outlet hiring a former political bigwig might have occasioned grumbling from members of the other party, critiques from journalism watchdogs or anonymous griping among the staff.

From New York Times

Related Words

• mogul