bigwig

noun

big·​wig ˈbig-ˌwig 

: an important person

Synonyms of bigwig

• heavyweight
• big
• heavy
• magnate
• tycoon

Examples of bigwig in a Sentence

a bigwig in local politics

interviewed by several bigwigs on the hospital's staff

Recent Examples on the Web

To the average investor, the bond markets may seem like a concern better left to Wall Street bigwigs. — Personal Finance, TheWeek, 30 Sep. 2026

The suit added a glamour factor for bigwig sponsors who would sometimes ride along. — Patt Morrison, Los Angeles Times, 16 Sep. 2026

The idea, according to officials, would bring $500 million to the city’s coffers annually, paid primarily by bigwigs who get to enjoy city life but don’t pay city income taxes. — Anthony Izaguirre, Fortune, 13 Aug. 2026

Stevens boasts the support of a growing list of establishment bigwigs—including Michigan’s governor, Gretchen Whitmer, and the state’s outgoing senator, Gary Peters—who clearly view her as more electable. — Jon Allsop, New Yorker, 3 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1772, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for bigwig

• renege
• big
• brig
• brigg
• dig
• fig
• gig
• jig
• mig
• pig
• prig
• rig

Kids Definition

bigwig

noun

big·​wig ˈbig-ˌwig 

: big shot