think tank
A group of people who collectively perform research and develop reports and recommendations on topics relating to strategic planning or public policy, and which is usually funded by corporate, government, or special interests.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The think tank publishes new ideas about education every month.”
“This think tank studies how technology changes the way we work.”
“A local think tank studied traffic problems and suggested building more bike lanes downtown.”
“After working for the government, she joined a think tank to focus on long-term solutions for global poverty.”
“The university started a new think tank where experts discuss the future of artificial intelligence and its risks.”
“Funded by energy companies, the influential think tank quietly shaped national climate policy through carefully timed reports and closed-door briefings with lawmakers.”
From the 19th-century usage of *think tank* or *think box* as a colloquial term for the human brain. The modern sense, applied to groups of experts, retains the earlier imagery of a contained space where intellectual labour occurs.
- 01
come to think of it
By the way; now that I think about it; indicates something brought to mind.
- 02
empty the tank
To make the utmost effort; to contribute to the absolute limit of one's energy and abilities.
- 03
give someone something to think about
To threaten or provide a challenge to.
- 04
have another think coming
To be deluded, to be mistaken; to need to rethink something one has determined; to need to reconsider one's plans or expectations.
- 05
lie back and think of England
Synonym of close one's eyes and think of England: to accept unwanted sex due to social pressures.
- 06
shut one's eyes and think of England
Alternative form of close one's eyes and think of England: to accept unwanted sex due to social pressures.
- 07
think aloud
To utter one's thoughts.
- 08
think back
To think about a time or experience; to recall.
Last updated August 10, 2026