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Definitions

break the ice

VERB
prepare the way
Synonyms
WEAK
be friendly and talkative break ground cut the first turf get one's feet wet lay the first stone lead off lead the way make a start oil the works open the way pave the way set at ease smooth the path socialize start start the ball rolling take the plunge

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

There was no small talk required to break the ice between these two leaders who have become unlikely friends.

From BBC • Oct. 10, 2025

“One thing that really helps people break the ice is a lot of times people are really generous with their supplies,” Hansen said.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 11, 2025

Using shared interests to break the ice on social networking sites can help users overlook other differences at first.

From Science Daily • Nov. 25, 2024

Connecting with people who share your interest in birds can allow you to break the ice.

From New York Times • Feb. 2, 2024

“Hey, Brother McKinnon,” Dill said, extending his hand, hoping to break the ice.

From "The Serpent King" by Jeff Zentner

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.