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Pipe dream
01
an impractical or impossible idea, plan, or wish
Idiom
Informal
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Inanimate
Plural form
pipe dreams
What is the origin of the idiom "pipe dream" and when to use it?
The idiom "pipe dream" originated in the early 20th century and was originally associated with the idea of hallucinations experienced by smokers of opium pipes, leading to unrealistic visions. Over time, it evolved to describe any impractical or unattainable vision or plan.
Examples
Building a house on a private island may be a delightful pipe dream, but it's beyond our budget.
