big smoke
Meaning
The city, especially a capital city, as seen from the country.
Example
She left the farm at eighteen and headed for the big smoke.
Origin
Origin unknown
Variants
the big smoke
Nearby words
- big end of townBig business; the wealthy corporate and financial establishment.
- big lunchAt school, the main lunch break in the middle of the day, as opposed to 'little lunch' (morning recess).
- big mobA lot; a large number or amount. Common in Aboriginal English and in northern and outback Australia.
- big-noteTo boast or show off, especially about one's money or importance. Usually 'big-note yourself'.
- big spitAn act of vomiting. Usually 'go for the big spit'.
- big sticksIn Australian rules football, the two tall goalposts.
- big stoushA nickname used by Australian soldiers and others for the First World War.
- bikieA member of a motorcycle club or gang.