Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - marquee

 I. noun  Etymology: modification of French marquise, literally, marchioness  Date: 1690  1. chiefly British a large tent set up for an outdoor party, reception, or exhibition  2.  a. a permanent canopy often of metal and glass projecting over an entrance (as of a hotel or theater)  b. a sign usually over the entrance of a theater or arena that displays the names of featured attractions and principal performers  II. adjective  Date: 1946 having or associated with the name recognition and attraction of one whose name appears on a ~ ; big-name, star ~ athletes ~ events