| a research institute or organization employed to solve complex problems or predict or plan future developments, as in military, political, or social areas. |
| think tank n. A group or an institution organized for intensive research and solving of problems, especially in the areas of technology, social or political strategy, or armament. |
An institution in which scholars pursue research in public policy. Largely funded by endowments and grants, think tanks work to improve public awareness of policy issues (through publications) and to influence the government to act upon issues of national importance. (See power elite.)
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think tank
A group or organization dedicated to problem-solving and research, especially in such areas as technology, social or political strategy, and the military. For example, The congressional leaders rely too heavily on that conservative think tank. This term originated about 1900 as a facetious colloquialism for brain and was given its new meaning about 1950.