big daddy
An important or boss-like man.
Updated September 21, 2026
big daddy pronunciation
/BIG DAD-ee/
Meaning
Can be affectionate for a grandfather or father figure, or a nickname for the man who runs things. Tone swings from fond to wary depending on who says it.
How folks use it
- “Big daddy still sits at the head of the table.”
- “Talk to big daddy if you want that job approved.”
Origin and etymology
American informal English. Southern families and blues culture both used big daddy for a powerful male figure. Exact first use is hard to pin; the sense is clear in context.