What is icebreaker? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of icebreaker in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of icebreaker

icebreakernoun

tàu phá băng

/ˈaɪsbreɪkə(r)//ˈaɪsbreɪkər/

Where does the word icebreaker come from?

The term "icebreaker" originally referred to ships equipped with special hull designs and reinforced construction that enabled them to navigate through icy waters. These ships, known as icebreakers, were used to clear a path through thick ice in the Arctic or Antarctic regions, allowing other ships to pass through. This phrase, which describes the ability of the ships to break through ice, was transferred to social situations to describe activities or games that help to ease social tension and break the ice between unfamiliar people, allowing for more comfortable social interactions. The first use of the term "icebreaker" in this sense can be traced back to the 1970s in the context of business meetings and team-building activities. Today, icebreakers are commonly used in various social situations, from party games to job interviews, to help individuals feel more at ease in new social situations.

Example of vocabulary icebreakernamespace

meaning

a strong ship designed to break a way through ice, for example in the Arctic or Antarctic

meaning

a thing that you do or say, such as a game or a joke, to make people feel more relaxed, especially at the beginning of a meeting, party, etc.


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