big-time

UK: ˈbɪɡtaɪm | US: ˈbɪɡtaɪm

Definition

  1. adj. of major importance or prominence

  2. adv. to a great extent or degree

  3. n. the highest level of success or fame

Structure
big <large, significant>time <period, occasion>
Etymology

The compound "big-time" emerged in American English around the late 19th century, originally used in vaudeville and sports to denote the major leagues or top-tier performers. "Big" (from Old English micel) emphasizes scale, while "time" (from Old English tīma) refers to a moment or era. Together, they metaphorically frame success as occupying a "larger" temporal or hierarchical space. The term later expanded to describe any high-stakes context.

Examples

  1. She finally made it to the big-time after years of hard work.

  2. The company went big-time with its latest product launch.

  3. He’s a big-time investor in the tech industry.

  4. The band hit the big-time when their song topped the charts.

  5. They’re not just local anymore—they’re playing big-time venues.