Ivory Tower

C1 16+

Pronunciation: /ˈaɪvəri ˈtaʊər/

Definitions of ivory tower

noun A metaphorical term used to describe a place or situation that is isolated or detached from the practicalities and realities of everyday life.

Example Sentences

A1 The princess lived in an ivory tower.

A2 The professor's ideas were often criticized for being too idealistic and coming from an ivory tower.

B1 Some people believe that politicians are out of touch with reality and live in an ivory tower.

B2 Academics sometimes face criticism for being isolated in their ivory towers and not understanding real-world problems.

C1 The CEO's decision-making process was often seen as detached and influenced by his ivory tower perspective.

C2 The artist's work was praised for its ability to bridge the gap between the ivory tower of high art and the everyday experiences of people.

Examples of ivory tower in a Sentence

formal The professor spent most of his time in his ivory tower, focused on his research.

informal She's always up in her ivory tower, never wanting to socialize with the rest of us.

slang Why does he act like he's in an ivory tower, thinking he's better than everyone else?

figurative Living in an ivory tower can sometimes isolate you from the realities of the world.

Grammatical Forms of ivory tower

plural

ivory towers

comparative

more ivory tower

superlative

most ivory tower

present tense

ivory tower

future tense

will ivory tower

perfect tense

has ivory tower

continuous tense

is ivory towering

singular

ivory tower

positive degree

ivory tower

infinitive

to ivory tower

gerund

ivory towering

participle

ivory towered

Origin and Evolution of ivory tower

First Known Use: 1390 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The term 'ivory tower' originates from the Bible, specifically the Song of Solomon, where the lover compares his beloved to a tower of ivory.
Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe a place of seclusion or retreat, the term 'ivory tower' has evolved to symbolize a place or state of privilege, disconnected from the realities of the world.