The main event
Meaning
The most important, exciting, or significant part of an occasion, program, or series of events.
Origin
Step into the smoky, raucous arenas of late 19th and early 20th-century boxing and wrestling, and you'd hear the roar of the crowd building for "The main event." This was the bout everyone paid to see, the contest featuring the biggest names, the highest stakes, and the most anticipated action, often preceded by a series of less significant preliminary matches. The phrase perfectly captured the crescendo of excitement and importance, and it wasn't long before its powerful imagery spilled out of the ring and into everyday language, becoming the go-to expression for the most significant or eagerly awaited part of any occasion, from a crucial meeting to a long-awaited celebration.
Examples
- After hours of opening acts, everyone was eager for The main event to finally begin.
- Winning the championship was considered The main event of her entire athletic career.