ivory

an ivory tower

if you are in an ivory tower, you are in a place or situation where you are separated from ordinary life and its problems. How much of the research done by academics in their ivory towers is ever read or published?

See also: tower

tickle/tinkle the ivories (humorous)

to play the piano. Grandma could tickle the ivories like a professional.

See also: tickle, tinkle

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tickle the ivories

to play the piano. She writes and produces her own music, and also tickles the ivories on her new album.

Usage notes: usually refers to playing the piano informally rather than in a concert

Etymology: from the literal meaning of ivories (= piano keys)

See also: tickle