Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

to break the ice

idiom
/tə breɪk ðə aɪs/
Definition
To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.
Examples
  • During the first meeting, the team leader told a funny story to break the ice.
  • To break the ice at the party, she started a fun game that got everyone laughing.
Meaning
This phrase is often used to describe actions meant to ease awkwardness or shyness, especially among people who have just met.
Synonyms
  • to ease tension
  • to initiate conversation
  • to make a start