Definition

A thing or activity that helps to relieve tension or awkwardness in a social situation, often used to encourage conversation or interaction among people.

Example

The team used a fun game as an icebreaker to help everyone get to know each other better.

Conversation

I think we should come up with an icebreaker for the party this weekend.

That sounds like a good idea! What do you have in mind?

Maybe we could play a game to get everyone talking and relaxed.

Definitely! An icebreaker game would make it more fun.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Icebreaker → It is formed from "ice" (from Old English "is", meaning frozen water) and "breaker" (from the verb "break", meaning to separate into pieces). The word "icebreaker" refers to something that breaks or disrupts ice, often used metaphorically to describe activities that ease social interactions.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ice' as frozen water that needs to be 'broken' to create a path or facilitate conversation. An icebreaker is something that helps to break the ice in social situations.

Visually Confused Words