Girlfriends

In certain Asian countries, the elephant was considered a holy being with such outrageous upkeep expenses that usually only a king would be able to afford.  The origin of the white elephant gift began with the practice of kings making  a gift of  a white elephant to someone he was displeased with.  It seemed like an honor until the person receiving the gift would realize the financial burden.  Hence, when we give silly, elaborate gifts of little value we call them white elephant gifts.