What does 'White elephant' mean?
An item that is more troublesome or costly to maintain than its worth; often an unwanted or burdensome possession.
What is the origion of 'White elephant'?
White elephants were historically given in countries of South and Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Myanmar (formerly Burma), Laos, and Cambodia. These animals are considered sacred and symbolic of royal power, prosperity, and good fortune in these cultures. The tradition of gifting a white elephant was often seen as both a blessing and a potential curse because, while the recipient was granted a sign of favor, the cost of maintaining such a prestigious animal without being able to put it to practical use could be financially ruinous.
Emoji meanings
- represents 'white'
indicating rarity or the specific type of elephant referenced in the idiom
represents 'elephant'symbolizing something large or significant
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