Definition of the word big wheel

The origin of the expression "big wheel" can be traced back to the 19th century when steam-powered machinery became increasingly popular in industrial settings. The phrase referred to a person who held a position of great authority or influence, similar to the large and powerful wheels used in steam engines that controlled their operation. The first attested usage of "big wheel" in this sense is from an 1857 issue of the New York Saturday Press, where it was used to describe a politician with significant influence over his community. The expression gained popularity in the following decades as the industrial revolution continued to transform society, and the importance of powerful leaders and influential figures grew. The usage of "big wheel" expanded to other contexts beyond politics as well. For example, a "big wheel" in a trolley car or subway train referred to the driver, conductor or Superintendent, whose position gave them authority over the operation of the transportation system. In carnival games, "Big Wheel" became a popular name for a small, wheel-shaped amusement ride, implying the idea of fortune, luck, and thrills. Overall, the phrase "big wheel" remains a part of our language today, speaking to the enduring role of powerful figures in society and their ability to control the gears and cogs of industry, politics, and entertainment.