bigwig crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "bigwig crossword clue"? You've come to the right place! We provide all possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you across the finish line.
Solutions for "bigwig crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
VIP: An acronym for 'Very Important Person', directly synonymous with a bigwig, often used in puzzles for its brevity.
5 Letters
NABOB: Historically, a wealthy or influential person, particularly one who has returned to a Western country after making a fortune in Asia; broadly, a person of power and influence.
MOGUL: A powerful and influential person, especially in business or media, perfectly fitting the description of a bigwig.
6 Letters
HONCHO: An informal term for a boss or a person in charge, a leader or chief, making it a strong contender for 'bigwig'.
TYCOON: A wealthy, powerful person in business or industry, a common synonym for a 'bigwig' or influential figure.
7 Letters
BIGSHOT: An informal term for an important or influential person, often used to describe someone who is a bigwig in their field.
9 Letters
DIGNITARY: A person considered to be important because of high rank or office, often used in official or formal contexts for someone who is a prominent bigwig.
BIGCHEESE: An informal, somewhat jocular term for a very important or influential person, a direct colloquial synonym for a 'bigwig'.
More About "bigwig crossword clue"
"Bigwig" is a colourful, often slightly informal, term used to describe a person of considerable importance, influence, or high rank. The word itself conjures an image of someone with a large, ornate wig, historically worn by prominent figures in courts or professions, signifying their status. In modern usage, it refers to anyone at the top of their field, whether in business, politics, media, or any other significant domain.
When this term appears in a crossword puzzle, the setter is typically looking for a synonym that conveys authority, power, or prominence. The context of the puzzle, such as surrounding letters or the theme, can help narrow down the possibilities. Common answers often range from short, punchy acronyms like VIP to longer, more descriptive terms like DIGNITARY or BIGCHEESE, each offering a slightly different nuance to the concept of a powerful individual.
Understanding the various shades of meaning and the common synonyms for "bigwig" is key to tackling this clue successfully. It's a testament to the richness of the English language that a single concept can be expressed in so many ways, making it a favorite for crossword constructors who enjoy playing with vocabulary.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: Consider if "bigwig" implies formal authority (DIGNITARY) or informal power (HONCHO, BIGCHEESE). The specific feel of the clue can guide your answer.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters. This is the most crucial filter. For "bigwig," answers like VIP (3), MOGUL (5), HONCHO (6), or BIGSHOT (7) cover various lengths.
- Look for Overlaps: If you've solved intersecting clues, use those confirmed letters to fill in the blanks for "bigwig" and narrow down the possibilities significantly.
- Think Broadly and Colloquially: "Bigwig" is informal, so be open to answers that are also informal or even slang, such as BIGCHEESE or BIGSHOT.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "bigwig" mean in a crossword?
"Bigwig" in a crossword typically refers to an important, influential, or prominent person. It can be a formal leader, a powerful figure in an industry, or simply someone highly respected in their field. The clue often points towards synonyms like "mogul," "tycoon," "VIP," "honcho," or "dignitary."
How do I identify "bigwig" in different crossword types?
Identifying "bigwig" depends on the crossword's style. In cryptic crosswords, it might be hinted at through wordplay related to someone wearing a large wig (literal interpretation) or a person with a large head (metaphorical). In standard crosswords, look for direct synonyms or phrases describing authority and importance. The number of letters will be your biggest hint.
Are there common synonyms for "bigwig" in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms frequently used for "bigwig" in crosswords include MOGUL, TYCOON, HONCHO, VIP, BIGSHOT, NABOB, DIGNITARY, and BIGCHEESE. Less common but possible answers might be KINGPIN, BARON, or TSAR, depending on the context and specific clue nuances. Always check the letter count and surrounding solved letters to confirm.