Episode Synopsis "Break the Ice"

In this episode of the Genesis: the Back Story of Phrases and Idioms, Hridaya Nair and Pal Surti of grade 9th discuss the idiom, 'break the ice.' They tell you about its origins, and how to use it in a sentence. According to one theory, 'break the ice' dates back to the 18th century when ships were the only mode of transport and commerce. Sometimes they would get stuck on the ice in winter. Countries would send ships to literally break the ice, establishing friendly relations. Another theory says that Samuel Butler used it in his poem Hudibras for the first time, even before it came to be used in connection with shipping. So have a listen.  And, if you know the origins of an idiom, do send it to us. Or, you may send a voice message here. 

Listen "Break the Ice"

More episodes of the podcast Genesis of Phrases and Idioms in English

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• Add My Two Cents
• Slap on the Wrist
• A Penny for Your Thougts
• Blow a Raspberry
• An Earworm
• My Cup of Tea
• Till the Cows Come Home
• Loophole
• Big wig and its dirty origins
• Steal My Thunder
• He Who Begins too Much Accomplishes Little
• Beat around the Bush
• In the Bag
• Under the Weather
• The Proof is in the Pudding
• A Gentle Hand May Lead Even an Elephant by A Single Hair
• Piece of Cake
• Red Tape
• Cold Shoulder
• Go the Whole Nine Yards
• Break the Ice
• Bark Up the Wrong Tree
• Rubber Meets the Road
• Bury the Hatchet
• Pull Out All Stops
• Cat Got Your Tongue
• Hands Down
• Straight from the Horse's Mouth
• Once in a Blue Moon
• Throw the Baby out with the Bath Water
• Fly off the handle
• White elephant
• mad as a hatter