IVORY Meaning and
Definition
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Ivory is a term that primarily refers to the hard, creamy-white substance found in the tusks and teeth of certain animals, particularly elephants, walruses, and various species of whales. This natural material is composed primarily of dentin, a dense bone-like tissue, and is renowned for its durability and attractive appearance. Ivory has been valued and utilized by humans for thousands of years due to its versatility and aesthetic appeal.
Historically, ivory has been highly prized for its usefulness in carving intricate and intricate designs, and it has been used to create beautiful sculptures, jewelry, musical instruments, and other ornamental objects. Due to its scarcity and desirability, it has been associated with wealth, luxury, and elegance throughout many cultures and societies worldwide.
However, it is crucial to highlight that the illegal trade and harvesting of ivory has posed a significant threat to the survival of animal populations, particularly elephants. To combat this issue, international regulations have been established to ban or restrict the trade of ivory in order to protect these animals from exploitation and preserve their natural habitats.
In a broader sense, the term "ivory" can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is smooth, polished, or pure white in appearance and texture, resembling the material itself.
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The hard dentine of the tusks of elephants and certain other animals.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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• The bony tusk of the male elephant; also teeth or tusks of the sea-horse; any white organic structure resembling ivory.
• Made or prepared from ivory; resembling ivory.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for IVORY *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for IVORY
Etymology of IVORY
The word "ivory" originated from the Latin word "ebur". It is believed to have been borrowed from the ancient Egyptian word "ab" or "abw", which means "ivory" or "elephant". The Egyptian word was later adopted by the Greeks as "elephas" and by the Phoenicians as "elephantos", which eventually led to the Latin "ebur". Through various linguistic evolutions, "ebur" transformed into "ivor" in Old French and eventually into "ivory" in English.
Idioms with the word IVORY
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an ivory tower
The idiom "an ivory tower" refers to a symbolically isolated and detached place, situation, or perspective, often associated with academia or intellectual pursuits. It denotes a place where individuals are sheltered from the practical realities and concerns of the real world, typically being focused solely on theoretical or abstract ideas. This expression is often used to criticize or mock those who are disconnected from the everyday problems and experiences of ordinary people.
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in an ivory tower
The idiom "in an ivory tower" refers to someone who is secluded or isolated from the realities of everyday life, often due to their high social or intellectual status. It suggests that the person is detached from the concerns and issues of the general population, living in an idealized or intellectualized world.
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an/(one's) ivory tower
The idiom "an/(one's) ivory tower" refers to a situation where someone is secluded or isolated from the realities and problems of everyday life, often due to their privileged or sheltered position. It suggests that the person is detached from the concerns of ordinary people or the practicalities of the real world. The term originates from the image of an ivory tower as a symbol of luxury and solace, separated from the struggles and challenges faced by the majority of society.
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live in an/(one's) ivory tower
The idiom "live in an/(one's) ivory tower" refers to the act of being isolated or detached from the realities, problems, or concerns of everyday life. It typically signifies a state of privilege, intellectual seclusion, or a lack of awareness about the difficulties faced by ordinary people. The term often implies that someone is out of touch with the practical aspects of life and is instead living in a world of theory, idealism, or impracticality.
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ivory tower
The idiom "ivory tower" refers to a state of detachment or isolation from the practical concerns and realities of the world, often associated with a person who is highly educated or intellectual. It implies being disconnected from the everyday issues and experiences of the general population and living in a sheltered and privileged environment, such as a university or academic institution.
Similar spelling words for IVORY
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