Meaning & Definition of word "Iceberg"
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Iceberg
/ˈaɪs.bɜːrɡ/
noun:
- 1. A large mass of freshwater ice floating in the sea, having at least one-tenth of its volume above the water surface.
- Example: The Titanic struck an iceberg, leading to its tragic sinking.
- 2. Figuratively, a situation or problem that is much larger than it appears on the surface.
- Example: The financial issues in the company were just the tip of the iceberg; deeper problems lay underneath.
- 3. A metaphor for a hidden or underlying issue.
- Example: Her apparent calmness was only the iceberg’s tip; she was struggling beneath the surface.
- 4. In popular context, the visible part of a larger situation or concept.
- Example: The research showed that climate change is an iceberg; while some effects are visible, most are hidden.
Etymology
From Dutch 'ijsberg', meaning 'ice mountain'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
tip of the iceberg:
A small, visible part of a much larger issue or problem.
swimming with icebergs:
Being in a dangerous situation where many problems are hidden.
Related Words
glacier:
A massive, slow-moving body of freshwater ice.
floe:
A flat piece of floating ice.
Slang Meanings of iceberg
Meaning: An obstacle or hidden threat.
Example Sentence: In negotiations, he realized he was just hitting the iceberg.
Meaning: A small problem that hints at a much bigger issue.
Example Sentence: When the boss mentioned the budget cuts, it felt like we were seeing the iceberg.