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.

Over two decades later, in February 1972, then US president Richard Nixon flew to China to break the ice.

From Barron's • May 15, 2026

Behind closed doors, Trump treats Xi with a deference he rarely extends to other leaders, according to people familiar with their meetings, replacing jokes intended to break the ice with compliments.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026

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

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

From "The Serpent King" by Jeff Zentner

break the ice

Example Sentences

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