First Known Use: 1911
Dictionary
ivory tower
noun
: a place or situation in which people make and discuss theories about problems (such as poverty and racism) without having any experience with those problems
Full Definition of IVORY TOWER
1
: an impractical often escapist attitude marked by aloof lack of concern with or interest in practical matters or urgent problems
2
: a secluded place that affords the means of treating practical issues with an impractical often escapist attitude; especially : a place of learning
— ivory–tower adjective
— ivo·ry–tow·er·ish \-ˈtau̇-(ə-)rish\ adjective
See ivory tower defined for English-language learners
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Origin of IVORY TOWER
translation of French tour d'ivoire
Rhymes with IVORY TOWER
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