Noun
gorilla in the room (plural gorillas in the room)
A problem or difficult issue that is very obvious, but is ignored for the convenience or comfort of those involved.
To be clear, climate change is a true 800 pound gorilla in the room. The effects of global warming threaten global environmental upheaval over the coming century. But for South Florida and the Everglades, it could be our death knell if urgent action is not taken. Debbie Wasserman Schultz
When it comes to global warming, coal is the gorilla in the room. Jeff Goodell
What is missing from today's dialogue is the effect autism is having on families, our society and what the unknown factors are. The 300lb. gorilla in the room is that our children with autism today will soon become adults with autism. Jenny McCarthy