McDonald's used the name Big Mac for its signature hamburger introduced in 1968.
The Big Mac was created by franchisee Jim Delligatti and became one of McDonald's most recognizable branded menu items. Its stacked construction, middle bun, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions gave it a distinct identity within the chain's menu.
The sandwich strengthened McDonald's product branding because customers could order it by a memorable name rather than by describing its ingredients. Its name also became closely connected with the arches and the company's broader advertising culture.
The Big Mac is sometimes confused with the Quarter Pounder, another major McDonald's hamburger. The two products are distinct: the Big Mac is known for its two smaller beef patties and middle bun, while the Quarter Pounder is named for the approximate pre-cooking weight of its beef patty.