big tent

American  

noun

1. a political party's or coalition's policy or doctrine of allowing and encouraging a wide range of beliefs, opinions, and views among its members.

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big tent British  

noun

1. 1. a political approach in which a party claims to be open to a wide spectrum of constituents and groups

   2. ( as modifier )

      big-tent politics

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Other Word Forms

• big-tent adjective

Etymology

Origin of big tent

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

"Carney has built a big tent, attracting members of parliament who would not normally be associated with the Liberal party," Sevi told the BBC.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

Finding that big tent of voters gets tougher and tougher.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 18, 2026

This expanded criteria makes discussions about curing or preventing autism incredibly fraught, because the label autism spectrum disorder is now such a big tent.

From Slate • Sep. 25, 2025

We should be a party that welcomes diversity and discussion and builds a big tent across America.

From Salon • Feb. 9, 2025

At first this festival was held in a big tent, like a circus.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood