big man on campus

Meaning. Someone who acts or is treated like the central, most important figure in a social scene.

See it in a sentence

He walks around like he’s the big man on campus.

How each generation says it

The closest equivalent for this idea in every generation.

Gen Z
main character,Main character energy
Gen Alpha
No word for this one yet.
Millennial
center of attention
Gen X
No word for this one yet.
Boomer · this one
big man on campus,scene-stealer
Plain English
someone who acts or is treated like the central, most important figure in a social scene

Short for best friend, used sincerely or sarcastically.

Best friends forever, the person you count as your closest friend.

Talking too much or revealing too much.

To ignore, avoid, or fail to follow through with someone.