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Translate files Iceberg
/ˈaɪs.bɜːrɡ/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A large mass of freshwater ice floating in the sea, having at least one-tenth of its volume above the water surface.
The Titanic struck an iceberg, leading to its tragic sinking.
Figuratively, a situation or problem that is much larger than it appears on the surface.
The financial issues in the company were just the tip of the iceberg; deeper problems lay underneath.
A metaphor for a hidden or underlying issue.
Her apparent calmness was only the iceberg’s tip; she was struggling beneath the surface.
In popular context, the visible part of a larger situation or concept.
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
An obstacle or hidden threat.
In negotiations, he realized he was just hitting the iceberg.
A small problem that hints at a much bigger issue.
When the boss mentioned the budget cuts, it felt like we were seeing the iceberg.