a name to conjure with

name to conjure with

1. A name that is important or well-known. There are definitely some names to conjure with at the upcoming industry conference!
2. An unusual or interesting name. Englebert Humperdinck is certainly a name to conjure with!
See also: conjure, name
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

a name to conjure with

mainly BRITISH
1. If you say that someone or something is a name to conjure with, you mean that they are very famous and important. Bugattis, Bentleys, Ferraris — motoring names to conjure with, and all part of a breath-taking display of classic cars. Doris Kearns Goodwin is not a name to conjure with in this country, but in the United States she is a star.
2. If you say that someone or something's name is a name to conjure with, you mean their name is very unusual or funny. Lily's sister, for instance, is Vera Cheeseman. Now there's a name to conjure with. Note: In this expression, the importance and influence associated with a person or thing are regarded as a kind of magical power which you can call on by using their name.
See also: conjure, name
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.

a name to conjure with

a person who is important within a particular sphere of activity.
The image here is of magically summoning a spirit to do your bidding by invoking a powerful name or using a spell.
1954 Iris Murdoch Under the Net His name, little known to the public, is one to conjure with in Hollywood.
See also: conjure, name
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

a name to ˈconjure with


1 the name of a well-known, very respected and admired person, group or thing in a particular field: My father went to school with Bill Gates — now there’s a name to conjure with!
2 (humorous) used when you mention a name that is difficult to remember or pronounce: The soup was called chlodnik — now there’s a name to conjure with!
See also: conjure, name
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • name to conjure with
  • no doubt about it
  • have (one's) name in lights
  • have your name in lights
  • make a name
  • make a name for (oneself)
  • make a name for oneself
  • make a name for yourself
  • definitely not
  • Definitely not!