Icebreaker: meaning, definitions and examples
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icebreaker
[ ˈaɪsˌbreɪkər ]
social situation
An icebreaker is a conversation starter or activity designed to relieve tension and encourage interaction among people in a group. It is especially useful in social settings where participants may not know each other well, helping to create a more relaxed atmosphere.
Synonyms
conversation starter, engagement activity, warm-up exercise
Examples of usage
- At the beginning of the meeting, the team leader suggested an icebreaker to get everyone talking.
- We played a fun icebreaker game to help the new students introduce themselves.
- The teacher used an icebreaker to help the class bond on the first day.
- During the retreat, various icebreakers facilitated discussions between participants.
Translations
Translations of the word "icebreaker" in other languages:
🇵🇹 quebra-gelo
🇮🇳 बर्फ़ तोड़ने वाला
🇩🇪 Eisbrecher
🇮🇩 pemecah es
🇺🇦 ледокол
🇵🇱 łamacz lodów
🇯🇵 アイスブレイカー
🇫🇷 brise-glace
🇪🇸 rompehielos
🇹🇷 buz kırıcı
🇰🇷 얼음 깨기
🇸🇦 كاسر الجليد
🇨🇿 icebreaker
🇸🇰 ľadoborec
🇨🇳 破冰者
🇸🇮 ledolomilec
🇮🇸 ísbroti
🇰🇿 мұзжарғыш
🇬🇪 ყინულის გამამტანი
🇦🇿 buzqıran
🇲🇽 rompehielos
Etymology
The term 'icebreaker' originated in the early 19th century, referring literally to ships designed to navigate through ice-covered waters. These ships were built with reinforced hulls to break through ice and ensure passage for others. Figuratively, the term began to be used in social contexts, signifying actions that break down social barriers or awkwardness during introductions. By the late 20th century, the term was commonly associated with games and activities intended to foster communication and cooperation in group situations. Its usage has since expanded to various fields, including education, business, and therapy, where breaking the initial tension in a group setting is essential for effective interaction.