ivory tower: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘ivory tower’ mean?
The idiom "ivory tower" refers to being secluded or detached from the realities and practicalities of everyday life, often used to describe intellectuals or academics who are disconnected from the concerns of the general population.
Idiom Explorer
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Enigmatic Insights
The idiom "ivory tower" commonly refers to a metaphorical place of seclusion or detachment from the realities of everyday life. It is often used to describe individuals or groups who are isolated from the concerns and problems of the world around them. The origins of this idiom can be traced back to biblical and literary references, although its precise etymology is not definitively known.
One possible origin of the idiom can be found in the Bible, specifically in the book of Song of Solomon. In this poetic text, the phrase "I am a wall, and my breasts like towers" is used metaphorically to describe the strength and allure of the beloved. It is believed that the association of towers with beauty and superiority may have contributed to the development of the idiom "ivory tower" in later literature.
The modern usage of "ivory tower" can be attributed to the French poet, Charles-Augustin Sainte-Beuve, who used the term "tour d'ivoire" in his poetry in the mid-19th century. The phrase was later popularized in English literature by the poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson, in his poem "The Palace of Art" published in 1832. Tennyson described a solitary artist who withdraws from society to create art in a tower, thus embodying the notion of isolation and detachment from the world.
The idiom gained further prominence in the early 20th century through its association with academic institutions. It has been used to depict universities and intellectuals who are believed to be disconnected from the practical concerns and problems of society. This connotation reflects a common perception that intellectuals and scholars can be overly theoretical, removed from the realities faced by the general population.
The idiom "ivory tower" has become a versatile and widely recognized expression, often used to criticize or mock individuals or groups perceived to be living in an insulated world of their own. It can be found in various contexts, ranging from political discussions to cultural commentaries. The idiom's continued use demonstrates its enduring relevance and the ongoing fascination with the dichotomy between isolation and engagement in contemporary society.
The idiom "ivory tower" is related to the idiom "concrete jungle." While "ivory tower" conveys a sense of isolation and detachment, "concrete jungle" refers to the opposite extreme - a crowded and impersonal urban environment. The juxtaposition of these two idioms highlights the contrasting experiences of seclusion and overwhelm in modern society.
Similarly, "ivory tower" is related to the idiom "castle in the air." Both idioms convey a sense of detachment from reality, with "ivory tower" focusing on intellectual and academic isolation, while "castle in the air" emphasizes the impracticality and fantasy-like nature of certain aspirations. These idioms serve as reminders of the importance of staying grounded and connected to the practical realities of everyday life.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "ivory tower" can be used in a sentence are:
- He tends to live in an ivory tower, disconnected from the realities of everyday life.
- Don't expect her to understand the struggles of the common people; she's always been in her ivory tower.
- The professor's theories may be interesting, but they come from an ivory tower perspective that lacks practical application.
The idiom "ivory tower" is often used to describe someone who is isolated or removed from the practicalities and realities of everyday life, typically due to their privileged or academic position. It implies a sense of detachment or aloofness from the concerns and experiences of the broader population.
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