The phrase “Big Apple” serves as a nickname for New York City. It refers to the city’s status as a prominent and desirable destination, particularly in the realm of entertainment and opportunities. The term conveys the idea that achieving success in New York City represents reaching the pinnacle of one’s career or ambitions. An example would be an aspiring musician moving to New York City with the goal of “making it big” in the “Big Apple.”
The adoption of this moniker is significant because it encapsulates the city’s allure as a center for ambition, achievement, and a high quality of life. Its historical context reveals a journey from horseracing slang to widespread adoption, reflecting the city’s evolving image and appeal. The name became particularly popular in the 1920s through a horse racing columnist John J. Fitz Gerald who heard the term from African American stable hands. The city then embraced the name in the 1970s during a tourism campaign to combat the perception of New York as a dangerous city.