ivory tower

noun

Synonyms of ivory towernext
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
ˈī-v(ə-)rē-ˈtau̇(-ə)r How to pronounce ivory tower (audio)
adjective
ivory-towerish
ˈī-v(ə-)rē-ˈtau̇-(ə-)rish How to pronounce ivory tower (audio)
adjective

Examples of ivory tower in a Sentence

The book was written by some college professor who's spent her entire professional life in an ivory tower.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some precincts of the ivory tower are suspicious of academics who become public figures. — Jason Dove Mark, The Atlantic, 11 June 2026 Two-thirds have counseled students to consider careers outside the ivory tower. — Jonathan Wosen, STAT, 19 Mar. 2026 Their relatable approach is often miles away from the ivory tower that has represented the monarchy in the past. — Rachel Burchfield, InStyle, 13 Mar. 2026 Manley dismissed the criticism as ivory tower musings from people who don’t understand the real world. — Victoria Le, Oc Register, 21 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ivory tower

Word History

Etymology

translation of French tour d'ivoire

First Known Use

1894, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ivory tower was in 1894

Rhymes for ivory tower

See All Rhymes for ivory tower

Browse Nearby Words

ivory tint
ivory tower
ivory-towered
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ivory tower.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ivory%20tower. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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