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Showing results for break the ice. Search instead for break the ice/2.
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.

After months of friction between the two countries, the meeting on Friday could break the ice and set the stage for policy negotiations as both presidents navigate pressures from their constituencies.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 5, 2025

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

From BBC • Oct. 10, 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

Tyson Ropp used an ax to break the ice covering a stock tank on Friday at the Double Cross Cattle Company ranch south of Roberts, Mont.

From New York Times • Jan. 14, 2024

It was having Marlene with us that helped break the ice, helped dispel suspicion.

From "An Elephant in the Garden" by Michael Morpurgo

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