1. a Hawaiian priest, healer, or expert in traditional practices
Usage: Hawaiian origin
2. an important or influential person; a big shot
Usage: informal; often in phrase ‘big kahuna’

Examples

• The village kahuna performed traditional healing ceremonies.
• She consulted the kahuna about her family’s spiritual concerns.
• He’s the big kahuna of the marketing department.
• The CEO is the big kahuna around here.
• The kahuna blessed the new fishing boat before its maiden voyage.
• Everyone knew he was the kahuna when it came to computer programming.