What does away with the fairies mean?

[Nenad11]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #307 "English Slang Idioms (29)", question 7

"I tell you, Joe-- the receptionist is away with the ......... today. I've asked her to give me the number to corporate three times today, but she keeps forgetting", Wes told Max.

(a) fairies
(b) geese
(c) gnomes
(d) ogres

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #307 "English Slang Idioms (29)", answer 7

"I tell you, Joe-- the receptionist is away with the fairies today. I've asked her to give me the number to corporate three times today, but she keeps forgetting", Wes told Max.

Correct answer: (a) fairies

Your answer was: correct
_________________________

Does it mean that he is away with his thoughts ?

[Alan]

Hi,

This is a popular expression to describe someone who isn't concentrating on what you are telling them because they are preoccupied with other things on their mind.

Alan
_________________
English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Present Simple