big cheese

Definition

A very important figure, especially a high-ranking person in an organization.

Etymology

From big + cheese (“wealth, fame, importance”). Earliest use to mean importance from 1910.

Example Sentences

• "He’ll be meeting with the big cheese first thing tomorrow, to present his proposal."
• "I know. But it's his ship now, his command; he's in charge, he's the boss, the head man, the top dog, the big cheese, the head honcho, number one..."
• "If not for all these bills and taxes, our income would more than suffice. I feel like a real big cheese, until everybody takes a slice!"