tip of the ice cube
The first aspect of an insignificant or exaggerated problem or situation.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Formed by analogy with the phrase *tip of the iceberg*, the expression substitutes the larger mass for the comparatively small and domestic ice cube. No specific date of origin or historical figure is associated with this variation.
- 01
arse over tip
Tumbling or falling; upside-down.
- 02
break the ice
To start to get to know people to avoid social awkwardness and formality.
- 03
ice cool
calm and composed in a difficult situation.
- 04
ice maiden
An ice queen; a beautiful but heartless woman.
- 05
ice queen
A beautiful but heartless woman.
- 06
keep one's stick on the ice
To remain vigilant and ready for action.
- 07
keep someone on ice
To keep someone uninformed and waiting for a response.
- 08
on thin ice
Dangerously, hazardously, delicately.
Last updated August 10, 2026