break the ice

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈbɹeɪk ði ˈaɪs/

Etymology: By application of the metaphor that strangers are socially separated by ice.

To start to get to know people to avoid social awkwardness and formality.
“Including a few fun details in large group introductions can be a great way to break the ice.”
To introduce a conversation.
“If it be so ſir, that you are the man Muſt ſteed us all, and me amongſt the reſt: And if you breake the ice and do this ſeeke, Atchieve the elder: ſet the yonger free, For our acceſſe, whose hap ſhall be to have her, will not so graceleſſe be, to be ingrate.”
To surmount initial difficulties; to overcome obstacles and make a beginning.
Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see break, the, ice.