PhrasesHub

Big wig

    Definitions

      • to describe someone important or powerful
        Used to refer to someone who holds a high position of authority or influence, typically in a business or social setting.

      • to mock or ridicule someone
        Used in a sarcastic or humorous manner to make fun of someone who is perceived to be overly self-important or pretentious.

      • to describe someone with a lot of hair
        Used to describe someone who has a large amount of hair, typically in a full and voluminous style.

    Examples of Big wig

    • The powerful CEO was a true big wig in their industry.

      A big wig is a term used to describe someone who holds a high-ranking position or has a lot of authority in their field. In this example, the CEO is viewed as a prominent figure in their particular industry.

    • The contractor insisted that the project manager was a big wig in the construction industry.

      Here, the contractor is implying that the project manager has significant influence and expertise in their area of work, possibly as a result of their extensive experience or significant contributions to the industry.

    • The government bureaucrat was considered a big wig within the department, but his input was often dismissed by the higher-ups.

      This example highlights the fact that, although someone may be considered a big wig within their specific area or department, they may not hold the same level of authority or influence at a higher or broader level.

    • The author pointed out that the editor-in-chief of the magazine was a true big wig in the publishing industry.

      In this example, the term "big wig" is used to describe someone who holds a high-level position in a particular industry, and is respected and influential in that field. Here, the editor-in-chief is identified as a prominent figure in the publishing industry.

    • The marketing team presented the new product idea to the big wigs in the company's boardroom.

      In this example, "big wigs" refers to the high-ranking and influential executives in the company, sometimes also known as decision makers or top-level management. This idiom has a historical origin from the 18th century when wigs were a symbol of power and prestige, and people with large wigs were often associated with high social status. Today, the expression "big wigs" is commonly used to describe powerful people in contemporary society, particularly in a business or political context. It denotes a sense of authority and prestige, and can be used interchangeably with phrases such as "top brass" or "upper echelons".

    • The senator's big wig advisors strongly opposed the proposed bill, claiming it would have serious implications for national security.

      In this example, "big wig advisors" refers to the senior and influential advisors of the senator, who hold significant political power and influence the senator's decision-making process. This idiom emphasizes the advisors' high ranking and prestige within the senator's political circle, which highlights their powerful position and influential role in shaping political outcomes.

    • The president's big wig chief of staff was rumored to be behind the decision to cancel the major infrastructure project, causing widespread outrage among the public.

      In this example, "big wig chief of staff" refers to the president's most senior and influential advisor, who holds significant political influence and is closely involved in major decision-making processes within the administration. This idiom emphasizes the advisor's high rank and power, as well as their important role in shaping policy and influencing the president's decision-making process.

    • The big wigs in the banking industry strongly opposed the proposed regulation, claiming it would be detrimental to the economy.

      In this example, "big wigs in the banking industry" refers to the senior and influential executives of the banking industry, who hold significant economic and financial power. This idiom emphasizes the executives' high rank and power, as well as their important role in shaping economic policies and debates within the industry. It also highlights the significant influence that the banking industry holds over economic outcomes, particularly in areas related to finance and investment.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "big wig" is most commonly used to refer to someone who is important or powerful, often in a business or social setting. It can also be used in a sarcastic or mocking way to make fun of someone who is perceived to be overly self-important. Additionally, it can be used to describe someone who has a lot of hair.

    Origin of "Big wig"

    The origin of the idiom "big wig" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in 18th century England. At the time, wigs were a popular fashion statement among the wealthy and aristocratic class. These wigs were often large and elaborate, and were seen as a symbol of status and power. It is possible that the phrase "big wig" was used to describe someone who wore one of these extravagant wigs, and eventually evolved to refer to someone with a position of authority or influence.

    Another possible origin of the idiom comes from the practice of wearing wigs in courtrooms. Judges and lawyers would often wear wigs as a symbol of their authority and professionalism. The most senior judges were known as "bigwigs" because they wore the largest and most ornate wigs.

    Regardless of its exact origin, the idiom "big wig" has become a common phrase in the English language, used to describe someone who holds a position of power or importance. It may also be used in a more lighthearted or teasing manner among friends or colleagues. Its origins in the world of fashion and courtrooms have evolved into a versatile expression that is still widely used today.