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Loading...8 Origins of Popular Sayings (Slideshow)
- Katie Waldeck
- February 18, 2013
- 5:29 pm
- 223 comments
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8. “Break the Ice.”
Meaning: To break down social formalities.
Background: In the 18th century, new ships were invented that would literally break the ice on rivers — thus allowing trade to continue even in the harshest weather conditions. These “ice-breakers” led to strangers becoming acquainted with one another in the Polar regions.
Related:
8 Commonly Mispronounced Words
Commonly Misused Words
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Katie Waldeck
Katie is a freelance writer focused on pets, food and women’s issues. A Chicago native and longtime resident of the Pacific Northwest, Katie now lives in Oakland, California.
Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may
not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.
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223 comments
+ add your ownI do enjoy the origin of words or sayings.
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Really Neat Article! TY!
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Interesting, thanks.
Fascinating stuff...
hmmmmm thanks lol
Fun. As an English teacher and a student of History of the English Language, I have heard of some of these, but it's always good to "expand one's horizons."
Won't have to wonder about these any longer!
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