A white elephant gift is a humorous or impractical gift that is given with the intention of being regifted or discarded. The term “white elephant” is derived from the story of the King of Siam, who would give white elephants to courtiers who displeased him, knowing that the upkeep of the animal would be a financial burden.
White elephant gifts are often given at holiday parties or other social gatherings. The gifts are typically inexpensive and often humorous or impractical. Some popular white elephant gift ideas include gag gifts, joke gifts, and items that are difficult to use or store. The goal of a white elephant gift is to give a gift that will be more trouble than it’s worth, and that the recipient will be eager to get rid of.
