What does the expression big wig come from?

Answer 1

During the reign of Louis XIV, wigs were virtually obligatory for all European nobility and 'persons of quality'. At that time they were known in England as periwigs, which was shortened to 'wig' by around 1675. Wigs were expensive to purchase and keep in good condition, and were generally worn only by the powerful and wealthy. Since ostentation was fashionable in Bourbon France, over time the wigs became bigger and fancier, often to the point of absurdity (and even requiring scaffolding!). The term 'big-wig' for an important person came into being around this time, and has continued to be used even today.