From Wiktionary, the free dictionary
From big + top.
big top (plural big tops)
- A circus tent, especially the largest in a given circus, where the central attractions take place.
As a trapeze performer, she generally worked in the big top, but due to her injury, she was stuck working concessions.
- (by extension) A large tent of the style used for circusses.
- (by extension) The circus; the circus lifestyle.
He had been a big top performer in his youth, but in a twist of fate he had run away to become an investment banker.
