break the ice

Meaning

To do or say something that makes people feel more relaxed and comfortable in a social situation where they do not know each other well.

Examples

• She told a funny story about her commute to break the ice with her new colleagues.
• Games are a great way to break the ice at the beginning of a workshop.

Pronunciation: /breɪk ðə aɪs/

Synonyms of break the ice

Words with a similar meaning to break the ice:

• start
• warm up
• initiate