big league

noun

1

: major league

2

: big time sense 2

—often used in plural

big-league

ˈbig-ˌlēg 

adjective

big leaguer noun

Synonyms of big league

• big(s)
• major league

Examples of big league in a Sentence

Broadway is the big leagues, and for big bucks theatergoers expect professionalism.

Recent Examples on the Web

Walbert Ureña gave up two runs in six innings in his first big league start, but the Angels still lost, 2-1, to the Padres on Sunday. —Jeff Fletcher, Oc Register, 19 Apr. 2026

Then the new guy, Ryan Ward, made the final out in his big league debut, robbed of a hit and a chance to keep chipping away by a diving Troy Johnston in right field. —Los Angeles Times, 19 Apr. 2026

Sandoval hasn’t pitched in a big league game since June 2024, and while his role on this year’s Red Sox club remains unclear, Cora said earlier this month that he is being built up as a starter. —Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 19 Apr. 2026

Felix Reyes homered in his first at-bat in his big league debut for the Phillies, who have dropped nine of their last 12 games. —CBS News, 18 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for big league

• blitzkrieg
• fatigue
• intrigue
• muskeg
• chincoteague

Kids Definition

big league

noun

: the highest level especially in baseball

big-league adjective

big leaguer noun