top banana

English

Etymology

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Pronunciation

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Noun

top banana (plural top bananas)

1. (idiomatic) The boss, the leader.

   Synonyms: big cheese; see also Thesaurus:important person

   Only the top banana can make a decision of that magnitude.

2. (idiomatic, dated) The principal comedian in a vaudeville or burlesque show.

   Antonym: second banana

   He was hilarious, and remained the top banana on the tour for years.