n. 1. A rooflike structure, often bearing a signboard, projecting over an entrance, as to a theater or hotel. Also called marquise. 2. A large tent, often with open sides, used chiefly for outdoor entertainment. adj. Exceptionally popular or skilled: The team is hoping to sign a marquee player. [Early Modern English, large tent with open sides, back-formation from French marquise, marquise (probably with final (z)-sound taken in English as the English plural ending -s), from marquise, marchioness (also used attributively to describe things considered splendid or elegant), feminine of marquis, marquis; see MARQUISE.] ![]() (click for a larger image) marquee |
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