big daddy

noun

often capitalized B&D
: one preeminent especially by reason of power, size, or seniority : one representing paternalistic authority

Examples of big daddy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Now, Ducati is wheeling out the big daddy of the family, the 2024 Multistrada V4 S Grand Tour. — Peter Jackson, Robb Report, 20 Sep. 2023 The big daddy of them all, crude oil, is sinking slowly but steadily lower, perhaps on its way toward the $50 mark. — Sal Gilbertie, Forbes, 17 Mar. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of big daddy was in 1881

Rhymes for big daddy

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Cite this Entry

“Big daddy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/big%20daddy. Accessed 21 Mar. 2025.

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