Phrase guide

big top

noun · 4 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

noun

Meaning 1

A circus tent, especially the largest in a given circus, where the central attractions take place.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • As a trapeze performer, she generally worked in the big top, but due to her injury, she was stuck working concessions.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

noun

Meaning 2

A large tent of the style used for circusses.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: broadly

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

noun

Meaning 3

The circus; the circus lifestyle.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: broadly

Examples

  • He had been a big top performer in his youth, but in a twist of fate he had run away to become an investment banker.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

4

noun

Meaning 4

a canvas tent to house the audience at a circus performance

Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0

Examples

  • he was afraid of a fire in the circus tent
  • they had the big top up in less than an hour

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: circus tent, round top, top

Antonyms: none provided

Broader terms: canvas tent, canvas, canvass

History

Etymology

From big + top.