A white elephant is a term used to describe an object or asset that is burdensome, costly and difficult to dispose of. The phrase originated in Southeast Asia where kings would give rare albino elephants as gifts to courtiers who were then responsible for their care and upkeep. These elephants were considered a symbol of power and prestige but could be expensive to maintain, leading them to become burdensome possessions. The phrase "white elephant" is now used more broadly to describe any possession that is difficult or costly to dispose of, often because it has little value or use.