big enchilada

Also found in: Dictionary, Thesaurus, Financial.

big enchilada

1. The most important or powerful person in a group, organization, business, or movement (e.g., the boss, leader, etc.). Primarily heard in US, South Africa. I think it sounds like a great idea, but you'll have to ask the big enchilada first.

2. An object or goal of great value, importance, or consequence. Primarily heard in US, South Africa. We only need to win two more games in the tournament to take home the big enchilada.

See also: big, enchilada

big enchilada

see under big cheese.

See also: big, enchilada

the big enchilada

a person or thing of great importance. North American informal

See also: big, enchilada

the big enchiˈlada

(American English, informal, humorous) the most important person or thing: New Hampshire is the big enchilada in American politics.

An enchilada is a Mexican dish with meat and a spicy sauce.

See also: big, enchilada

big enchilada

(...ɛntʃəˈlɑdə)

n. the boss; the leader. (see also big cheese.) The big enchilada has sent word that it’s safe to return.

See also: big, enchilada

References in periodicals archive ?

So the big enchilada question has been, "How do you identify, recruit and groom the next generation of leaders to continue the legacy of the disability rights movement, now that the 'Formica and chrome kitchen table has been relegated to the shabby chic outlets?

Blue Hens, kitchen tables and the grooming of future leaders

Just when I'd fall asleep thinking about being a game away from playing in January for the big enchilada, the Ghost of Duck Failures Past would waddle into my dream: "This is Oregon," he'd quack.

We must remember to dream big

On the big enchilada - the thing that really matters above all else, temporary price relief - I'm disappointed we do have a major disagreement.

STATE SEEKS PRICE CAPS ON POWER BUSH: NO HELP; DAVIS: I'LL SUE FEARS OF ENERGY RECESSION MOUNT

This year, in the Big Enchilada, they are expected to cough up three or four times that amount.

California's Knightmare

Americans assume it is terribly painful to have once been a big enchilada and now be a mere taquito.

The Care and Feeding of Ex Celebrities

This is the big enchilada as far as Democrats are concerned.

JEWISH GROUP EVENT JOINS A-LIST LIEBERMAN'S ROLE ENERGIZES INTEREST

So, ODOT may figure if it can't provide the big enchilada, it can at least give the cities some sauce with freshly made freeway signs.