elephant in the room

noun phrase

: an obvious major problem or issue that people avoid discussing or acknowledging

Examples of elephant in the room in a Sentence

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.
That is the elephant in the room. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 13 June 2026 And now the celebrity elephant in the room. — Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 21 June 2026 After the cast got up the next morning, Trinity entered the women's quarters to immediately address the elephant in the room. — Taijuan Moorman, USA Today, 22 June 2026 Even when Drew tries to messily prod at the massive elephant in the room at dinner, the conversation still reverts to Angela’s issues with Shamea. — Ile-Ife Okantah, Vulture, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for elephant in the room

Word History

First Known Use

1985, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of elephant in the room was in 1985

Rhymes for elephant in the room

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Browse Nearby Words

elephantine tortoise
elephant in the room
elephant iron
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Cite this Entry

“Elephant in the room.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elephant%20in%20the%20room. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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