IVORYTOWER Meaning and
Definition
-
The term "ivory tower" is often used metaphorically to describe a state of seclusion, detachment, or aloofness, particularly in the intellectual or academic realm. Originating from the notion of an ivory tower as a secluded and inaccessible place, the phrase has come to symbolize a state of being removed from the practical realities of everyday life. The concept implies a disconnect from the concerns and experiences of the general population, fostering a sense of elitism, intellectualism, or intellectual isolation.
In this sense, someone described as "living in an ivory tower" is perceived as being disconnected from the real world, often engrossed in intellectual pursuits, academic theories, and abstract ideas, without regard for their practical implications or societal impact. It often suggests a lack of awareness or concern for the challenges, practicalities, and hardships that exist outside the ivory tower's boundaries.
The term is frequently associated with intellectuals, scholars, or academics who may be criticized for being too focused on theoretical or abstract ideas, divorced from the practical realities faced by the rest of society. While it can highlight the value of intellectual rigor and depth, the use of the term also connotes a degree of isolation or detachment, suggesting that those dwelling in the ivory tower may be out of touch with the real needs and concerns of ordinary people.
Common Misspellings for IVORYTOWER
- ivory towerr
- ivory tower
- ivori tower
- ivoreytower
- ivorytoower
- uvorytower
- jvorytower
- kvorytower
- ovorytower
- 9vorytower
- 8vorytower
- icorytower
- iborytower
- igorytower
- iforytower
- ivirytower
- ivkrytower
- ivlrytower
- ivprytower
- iv0rytower
Etymology of IVORYTOWER
The term "ivory tower" originates from the French phrase "tour d'ivoire", which can be traced back to a metaphorical representation found in the biblical Song of Solomon (7:4). The phrase was then popularized by the 19th-century French poet Charles-Augustin Sainte-Beuve, who used it to refer to inaccessible or isolated spaces of contemplation. It was later adopted into English in the early 20th century, specifically in the context of academia. The term "ivory tower" now generally signifies a state of aloofness or detachment from the realities and concerns of the world, particularly when it comes to academics or intellectuals.
