big name

noun

Synonyms of big namenext
: a performer or personage of top rank in popular recognition
a big name in the business world
big-name
ˈbig-ˌnām How to pronounce big name (audio)
adjective

Examples of big name in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Another summer series is in the Bandshell, where big name bands play weekly free concerts (check out the Celebrate Brooklyn website for the latest lineup). — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Aug. 2026 It’s been said there aren’t many dunks left to try, and that keeps big names from trying something new. — Jason Jones, New York Times, 21 Aug. 2026 One, a Kentucky city has made a big name for itself by cooking mutton barbecue. — John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 20 Aug. 2026 Here was a juicy alleged scandal involving two big names, a public intellectual and an actor publicly known for her intellect. — Hillary Busis, Vanity Fair, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for big name

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of big name was in 1881

Rhymes for big name

See All Rhymes for big name

Browse Nearby Words

bigmouthed
big name
big neck
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Big name.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/big%20name. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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