subs. phr. (colloquial).—Persons of standing or consequence.
1858. A. TROLLOPE, Doctor Thorne, I., 43. He would in no way assume a familiarity with bigger men than himself; allowing to the bigger men the privilege of making the first advances. Ibid., 81. When one is absolutely in the dirt at their feet, perhaps these BIG PEOPLE won’t wish one to stoop any further.
