English Explanatory Dictionary

break the ice

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To start to get to know people to avoid social awkwardness and formality.
  2. To introduce a conversation.
  3. To surmount initial difficulties; to overcome obstacles and make a beginning.
  4. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see break, the, ice.

Pronunciation

/ˈbɹeɪk ði ˈaɪs/ en-au-break the ice.ogg

Word forms

break the ice breaks the ice breaking the ice broke the ice broken the ice

Etymology

By application of the metaphor that strangers are socially separated by ice.

Derived words

icebreaker shatter the ice
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