white elephant
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"This was meant to be essential works to keep a cherished, historic building safe and functioning. It has turned into a basket case white elephant project."
From BBC ● Feb. 17, 2026
At the end of his storyline, there’s a disorienting creative decision that nearly addresses the white elephant in the room: the question of who belongs in this community.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 13, 2025
But the IOC is sensitive about spiraling costs and potential white elephant projects, so is encouraging local organizers to use venues in other countries.
From Seattle Times ● Jan. 29, 2024
In 2002 Lorn - by then a student in Glasgow - found a small white elephant in a gift shop and sent it to her granny for Christmas.
From BBC ● Dec. 27, 2023
On the page, red diamond-covered trailers passed by first, and each one advertised its contents: roaring lions and tigers, charging rhinos and furious hippos, and a majestic white elephant at the very end.
From "The Marvellers" by Dhonielle Clayton
