What does ‘break the ice’ mean?
To “break the ice” means to ease initial social tension. Brewer's records the phrase from the practical business of breaking ice to allow ships to enter port; hence any first move that opens a way for others.
Origin
- Brewer's records the phrase from the practical business of breaking ice to allow ships to enter port; hence any first move that opens a way for others.
How to use it
- Common in social and business introductions.
- Example: He told a joke to break the ice at the meeting.
Source:
Last verified: 2026-07-18
- Definitions and origins are drawn from public-domain reference works, primarily Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable (1898), with modern usage notes clearly marked.