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big top
big top
1. noun A large tent at a circus under which the main attractions are featured. Used figuratively to refer to the location where a primary or major event, show, or attraction is held, often in the phrase "under the big top." The headline bands are performing under the big top at the music festival this weekend.
2. adjective (often hyphenated) Featured as the primary or major event, attraction, show, etc. The big-top match in boxing this weekend will be the fight between the reigning champion and the underdog newcomer.
big top
1. The main tent of a circus, as in The high-wire act is almost always in the big top. [c. 1840]
2. Underworld slang for a maximum-security prison, as in He was sentenced to ten years in the big top. [1950s]
big top
1. n. a circus tent; the circus, in general. And now, one of the greatest acts under the big top.
2. mod. having to do with the circus. One big top experience is enough to last me a lifetime.