Definition

1. Noun:
   • A permanent canopy over an entrance: A marquee is a permanent roof-like structure, often decorative, projecting over the main entrance of a building such as a hotel, theater, or cinema. It is typically designed to provide shelter and is often illuminated with signs.
   • A large tent used for social events: A marquee is a large, often ornate tent, frequently used for temporary outdoor events like weddings, parties, or fairs. This meaning is more common in British English.

Examples

• Noun (Permanent Canopy):
  • The theater's marquee was lit up with the names of the starring actors.
  • Guests gathered under the hotel's marquee to stay dry from the rain.
• Noun (Large Tent):
  • They set up a marquee in the garden for the wedding reception.
  • The summer fair featured several marquees selling local crafts and food.

Advanced Usage

• "Marquee name" or "Marquee player": This is a figurative use, referring to a person, especially a performer or athlete, who is the biggest attraction or star.
  • The festival secured several marquee names for its opening night.
  • He was the team's marquee signing for the new season.

Variants and Related Words

• Marquee (adjective): Used attributively to describe something that is a major attraction or feature.
  • The marquee event of the conference was the keynote speech.

Synonyms

• Canopy: A covering suspended above a doorway or bed (for the permanent structure sense).
• Awning: A sheet of canvas or other material stretched on a frame and used to shelter a shop window or doorway (similar to the permanent structure).
• Pavilion: A large tent or a light building used for entertainment or exhibitions (for the large tent sense).
• Big top: The main tent in a circus (a specific type of large tent).

Related Phrases

• Under the marquee: Literally, beneath the shelter of the tent or canopy.
  • The ceremony will be held under the marquee.
• Marquee value: The commercial attractiveness or drawing power of a star.
  • The actor's marquee value guarantees a large audience.

Noun

1. permanent canopy over an entrance of a hotel etc.
2. large and often sumptuous tent