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Definition of bigwig
bigwig
/ˈbɪɡ.wɪɡ/
big · wig
Plural:bigwigs
bigwig Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
8
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
2
bigwig Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
An important, powerful, or influential person, especially one holding a high-ranking position in an organization or field (used informally and often humorously).
Example
"Several corporate bigwigs attended the annual charity gala to announce the company's new philanthropic initiative."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for bigwig Antonyms
View all antonyms for bigwigWord Origin & Etymology
Coined in the early 18th century as an allusion to the large, elaborate powdered wigs worn by judges, nobles, and high-ranking officials in Britain and Europe as a mark of authority and social status.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bigwig. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bigwig