big

(bĭg)

1. Of considerable size, number, quantity, magnitude, or extent; large. See Synonyms at large.
2. a. Of great force; strong: a big wind; in a big rage.
   b. Obsolete Of great strength.
3. a. Mature or grown-up: big enough to take the bus by herself.
   b. Older or eldest. Used especially of a sibling: My big brother is leaving for college next week.
4. Pregnant: big with child.
5. Filled up; brimming over: felt big with love.
6. Having or exercising considerable authority, control, or influence: a big official; a big chief.
7. Conspicuous in position, wealth, or importance; prominent: a big figure in the peace movement.
8. Of great significance; momentous: a big decision; a big victory.
9. Informal Widely liked, used, or practiced; popular: “For public opinion . . . has grown harsh and yuppie-bashing is big” (Sally Jacobs).
10. Informal Self-important; cocky: You're too big for your own good.
11. Loud and firm; resounding: a big voice.
12. Bountiful; generous: had a big heart.

1. In a pretentious or boastful way: talked big about the new job.
2. Informal
   a. With considerable success: made it big with their recent best-selling album.
   b. In a thorough or unmistakable way; emphatically: failed big at the box office.

Related Forms:

• bigˈgish adjective

• bigˈly adverb

• bigˈness noun