Break the ice
Suggest a CorrectionMeaning
To start a conversation or ease tension in an awkward or stiff situation.
Origin
From the literal act of ships breaking ice to navigate frozen waters, later adapted to social contexts in the 16th century.
Usage Examples
- He told a joke to break the ice at the meeting.
- She broke the ice by asking about his favorite movie.
- A game was used to break the ice among the new students.
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