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.
In recent years, an increasing number of dating apps, including eharmony, have begun offering more virtual dating options to help break the ice before meeting up in the real world. — Jordan Minor, PC Magazine, 29 July 2026 Andruw Monasterio broke the ice with a solo home run, and a couple of batters later Ceddanne Rafaela followed with a two-run shot to make it 3-0. — Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 7 July 2026 Soccer talk won’t break the ice, since Italy – in what has become an unfortunately commonplace occurrence for the proud soccer nation – failed to qualify for the World Cup finals. — Ben Church, CNN Money, 7 July 2026

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 6 Aug. 2026.

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