The phrase "circus elephant" refers to an elephant that performs in a circus, doing tricks or providing entertainment for the audience. It describes an elephant that is trained and used for shows or performances in a circus setting. Full definition
Just days after the devastating tornado ripped through Joplin, Mo., on May 22, extra help showed up in the unlikely form of circus elephants. (okcpetsmagazine.com)
And Lewis at one point has a character's internal monologue describe the «entire history of Wall Street» as the «story of scandals... linked together tail to trunk like circus elephants.» (canadianbusiness.com)
Tim Burton is also working on a live - action version of Dumbo, which has PETA already asking him to change the story's ending and have the floppy - eared circus elephant retire to a sanctuary instead. (themarysue.com)