big name

noun

: a performer or personage of top rank in popular recognition

a big name in the business world

big-name

ˈbig-ˌnām 

adjective

Examples of big name in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Leading up to the deal’s anticipated close, expect a lot of chatter on big names who want to get in on the equity or debt sides of the transaction. — Winston Cho, HollywoodReporter, 24 Sep. 2026

Despite attracting some big name speakers over its short life including David Beckham and Netflix content chief Bela Bajaria, MIP London struggled to establish itself in a crowded market. — Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 23 Sep. 2026

Should the person report directly to OpenAI president and co-founder Greg Brockman, who is reportedly hiring for the role instead of Altman, which would be most attractive for a big name like Hazelbaker? — Emily Forlini, Fortune, 23 Sep. 2026

Aguilera and Rutler are far from the only big names to visit Portofino this year. — Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for big name

• acclaim
• aflame
• airframe
• ballgame
• became
• declaim
• defame
• disclaim
• doorframe
• exclaim
• inflame
• mainframe