English

Verb

break the ice ‎(third-person singular simple present breaks the ice, present participle breaking the ice, simple past broke the ice, past participle broken the ice)

1. Used other than as an idiom: see break,‎ the,‎ ice.
2. (idiomatic) To start to get to know people to avoid social awkwardness and formality.

   Including a few fun details in large group introductions can be a great way to break the ice.

3. (idiomatic) To introduce conversation. (Can we add an example for this sense?)
4. To surmount initial difficulties; to overcome obstacles and make a beginning.

Coordinate terms

• shatter the ice

Related terms

• icebreaker

Translations