break the ice

phrase

1
: to make a beginning
2
: to get through the first difficulties in starting a conversation or discussion

Examples of break the ice in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As a game of Guess Who broke the ice between the in-laws, the would-be-weds headed home early ahead of the following day’s rehearsal, bringing along an abundance of colorful glassware and audio equipment from their own home. — Daniel Rodgers, Vogue, 28 Oct. 2026 Remixing familiar favorites has been the key in how Pakistani-American food is breaking the ice. — Maryam Jillani, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2026 Even icebreakers sometimes need a little guidance to break the ice. — Andrew Baggarly, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026 The exchange broke the ice, and Wald says from there a lifelong friendship was born. — Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for break the ice

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1577, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of break the ice was circa 1577

Rhymes for break the ice

See All Rhymes for break the ice

Browse Nearby Words

break the bank
break the ice
break the mold
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Break the ice.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/break%20the%20ice. Accessed 30 Oct. 2026.

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