On ice

//ɒn ˈaɪs// prep_phrase, slang

Definitions

Prep_phrase
  1. 1
    Not being used; temporarily unavailable or suspended; on hold. idiomatic

    "We're putting the new software features on ice until we can fix the existing bugs."

  2. 2
    Not being used; temporarily unavailable or suspended; on hold.; Dead, especially from murder or other nefarious means. idiomatic, slang

    "Boss says there's a mole in our organization. Find him and put him on ice."

  3. 3
    Of an entertainment normally performed on a stage: performed by ice skaters as an ice show.

    "We went to see Cinderella on ice."

  4. 4
    Of a sporting or other contest: in a state of assured victory for the leading contestant.

    "Near-synonym: in the bag"

  5. 5
    Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see on, ice.

    "Going to the wine cellar, she said: "I will put three bottles of Tokay wine on ice.[…]""

Etymology

The first sense (“not being used; temporarily unavailable or suspended”) probably refers to the practice of putting food on ice to preserve it.

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