🧊 What Does Break the Ice Mean? To break the ice means to do or say something to relieve tension or get a conversation going , especially when people meet for the first time. It’s used when trying to make a situation feel more relaxed and friendly. 📜 Origin and Background of Break the Ice The idiom break the ice comes from the days of trade by sea. In the past, large ships transporting goods would sometimes get stuck in frozen rivers or harbors. Smaller vessels called icebreakers were sent ahead to literally break the ice , clearing the way and making it easier for ships to pass. By the 17th century, the phrase began to be used metaphorically to describe starting up conversations or easing social tension—just like those ships, people often need a little help getting things moving! 🗣️ When and How Do We Use Break the Ice ? You can use break the ice in a variety of social or professional settings: At the start of a meeting During introductions On first dates In classro...