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elephant in the room

noun phrase
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Definition of elephant in the room

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

First Known Use of elephant in the room

1985, in the meaning defined above

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

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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 4 Mar. 2021.

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