Pronunciation: [pˈa͡ɪp dɹˈiːmd] (IPA) 
The phrase "pipe dreamed" is spelled with a space and a "d" at the end, even though it is often miswritten as "pipe dreamt". This is because it comes from the phrase "pipe dream", meaning an unrealistic or impractical hope or fantasy, and the past tense of "dream" is spelled with an "ed" ending. In IPA phonetics, the word is pronounced /paɪp driːmd/, with stress on the second syllable of "dreamed".
Pipe dreamed is a phrase typically used to describe an idea, plan, or goal that is regarded as highly unrealistic, impractical, or unachievable. It refers to a notion or fantasy that exists only in one's imagination, akin to an illusionary vision that vanishes when confronted with reality. The term originated from the image of someone smoking a pipe and daydreaming, a state where their thoughts may be disconnected from practical considerations.
When an idea or plan is considered a pipe dream, it suggests that it lacks feasibility or sound basis, often due to numerous obstacles, a lack of resources, or conflicting factors that render its success improbable. It implies a sense of futility or impossibility, as if the idea itself is ephemeral and destined to remain a mere figment of the imagination.
The phrase is commonly used to convey skepticism, disapproval, or doubt towards someone's aspirations or proposals, as it emphasizes the impracticality or far-fetched nature of their ambitions. Moreover, describing an idea as a pipe dream can serve to caution individuals against investing time, effort, or resources into something that is unlikely to yield positive results.
In summary, when something is referred to as pipe dreamed, it implies that it is an unrealistic or impractical idea, plan, or goal that is unlikely to be accomplished due to various factors hindering its realization.
The phrase "pipe dream" originated in the United States in the late 19th century. Its etymology combines two distinct sources.
Firstly, "pipe" refers to a tobacco pipe. Smoking a pipe was a common practice, particularly among intellectuals and dreamers who would indulge in their thoughts while smoking. The act of smoking a pipe was associated with leisurely contemplation and free-flowing ideas.
Secondly, "dream" refers to the imaginative thoughts and ideas that occur during sleep. Dreams have long been associated with the pursuit of aspirations, idealistic notions, or fantasies.
Therefore, combining these two elements, a "pipe dream" originally referred to the process of engaging in idle thoughts or indulging in fanciful ideas while smoking a pipe. Over time, the phrase has evolved to generally describe any impractical or unattainable goal or hope.
