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On ice
//ɒn ˈaɪs// prep_phrase, slang
Definitions
Prep_phrase
- 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 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 Of an entertainment normally performed on a stage: performed by ice skaters as an ice show.
"We went to see Cinderella on ice."
- 4 Of a sporting or other contest: in a state of assured victory for the leading contestant.
"Near-synonym: in the bag"
- 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.
See also for "on ice"
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