break the ice

Definition

To start to get to know people to avoid social awkwardness and formality.

Etymology

By application of the metaphor that strangers are socially separated by ice.

Example Sentences

• "Including a few fun details in large group introductions can be a great way to break the ice."
• "If it be so ſir, that you are the man Muſt ſteed us all, and me amongſt the reſt: And if you breake the ice and do this ſeeke, Atchieve the elder: ſet the yonger free, For our acceſſe, whose hap ſhall be to have her, will not so graceleſſe be, to be ingrate."