| big band |
a large jazz or dance band, esp. one of the 1930s and 1940s in the U.S., that combines arranged ensemble playing with solo improvisations. [2 definitions] |
| big bang theory |
the theory that the universe originated at a fixed point billions of years ago in a cosmic explosion of a mass of hydrogen atoms, and that it has been expanding ever since. (Cf. steady state theory.) |
| Big Ben |
the bell in the clock tower of the Parliament building in London. [2 definitions] |
| big brother |
an elder brother. [3 definitions] |
| Big Dipper |
part of the constellation Ursa Major, made up of this constellation's seven brightest stars. These stars form a shape that looks like a ladle, or dipper. |
| big game |
large wild animals hunted for sport, such as deer, boar, or tigers. [2 definitions] |
| big league |
see "major league." [2 definitions] |
| big lie |
a gross falsity, distortion, or misrepresentation that becomes widely accepted through constant repetition and elaboration (usu. prec. by "the"). [2 definitions] |
| big on |
excited about; having a liking for. |
| big picture |
an overall view or perspective that considers larger or long-term implications (prec. by "the"). |
| big shot |
(informal) an influential or important person. |
| big stick |
political or military power, displayed or implied to intimidate or gain cooperation from potential adversaries, esp. as a foreign policy. |
| big top |
the tent or main tent of a circus. [2 definitions] |
| big tree |
a very tall cone-bearing evergreen found in California; giant sequoia. |
| big-league |
of, concerning, or suitable for a top professional sports league, esp. one of the baseball major leagues. [2 definitions] |
| big-time |
(informal) significant or influential in a particular trade, profession, or other field of endeavor. [2 definitions] |