What do we mean when we say it today?
What do a Britney Spears song, Mark Twain's Life on the Mississippi, and a kid's game have in common? They all use the phrase "break the ice."
But we're willing to bet when you've heard "break the ice" before, it's been about people getting to know one another. Ever been asked to get in age order, play Two Truths and a Lie, or solve a puzzle on the first day of class or work? Yep, those are ways that people can break the ice with one another.
So what is "ice"? It's frozen water that has gotten hard. But you knew that literal definition already. Figuratively speaking, "ice" is that awkwardness or tension that comes from not knowing people. When a bunch of people get together for the first time, they don't know what they have in common. Sometimes people don't feel comfortable enough to talk to one another.
Breaking the ice and "ice-breakers" are supposed to put everyone at ease. They warm up the room by making people feel more relaxed working together or discussing a project.