PINK ELEPHANTS Meaning and
Definition
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Pink elephants refer to a popular idiom that describes hallucinations or visual disturbances commonly associated with the consumption of excessive alcohol or drug use. These hallucinations typically manifest in the form of seeing vivid and unreal images of pink-colored elephants. The term gained considerable prominence due to its inclusion in various forms of popular culture, notably films, literature, and music.
Symbolically, pink elephants convey the predicament of dwelling in a state of intoxication or delusion. They epitomize the distorted perception of reality, representing unreal and fantastical apparitions that are experienced while under the influence. The phrase is often used figuratively to depict things or situations that are implausible, absurd, or improbable.
The origin of this expression can be traced back to the early 20th century, with its earliest known appearance in Jack London's 1913 novel, "John Barleycorn." Over the years, it has become entrenched in the cultural lexicon, finding usage as a humorous or quirky way to allude to inebriation or altered states of consciousness.
The pink elephant phenomenon, therefore, serves as a metaphorical cautionary tale, reminding individuals of the potential consequences of excessive indulgence in substances and the distortion it can bring to one's perception and judgment.
Common Misspellings for PINK ELEPHANTS
- oink elephants
- link elephants
- -ink elephants
- 0ink elephants
- punk elephants
- pjnk elephants
- pknk elephants
- ponk elephants
- p9nk elephants
- p8nk elephants
- pibk elephants
- pimk elephants
- pijk elephants
- pihk elephants
- pinj elephants
- pinm elephants
- pinl elephants
- pino elephants
- pini elephants
Etymology of PINK ELEPHANTS
The term "pink elephants" primarily refers to a visual hallucination of pink-colored elephants typically associated with drunkenness or delirium tremens caused by alcohol withdrawal. The word "pink" describes the color of the elephants, while "elephants" refers to the specific hallucination.
The etymology of the term "pink elephants" can be attributed to its origin in literature and popular culture. The phrase gained significant attention and became widely known through its mention in the 1897 novel "Là-bas" by French writer Joris-Karl Huysmans. In this novel, the protagonist experiences vivid hallucinations of pink-colored elephants during a night of excessive drinking.
However, it wasn't until the 1941 Disney film "Dumbo" that the image of pink elephants truly embedded itself in popular culture.
Idioms with the word PINK ELEPHANTS
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seeing pink elephants
The idiom "seeing pink elephants" is used to describe a hallucination or delusion, typically as a result of being intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. It refers to the imaginary vision of seeing pink-colored elephants that is not real or physically present.
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pink elephants
The idiom "pink elephants" refers to hallucinations or delusions that are usually brought on by intoxication, especially by excessive alcohol consumption. It is often used to describe seeing things that are not really there or experiencing unusual or bizarre thoughts or sensations.
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