Put something on ice
Meaning
To temporarily postpone, delay, or suspend an activity, decision, or project.
Origin
The phrase draws its vivid imagery from the literal practice of using ice to preserve perishable goods, particularly food and beverages, to keep them from spoiling or to chill them until they are ready for use. Before modern refrigeration, iceboxes and cool cellars packed with ice were crucial for extending the life of provisions. To "put something on ice" meant to store it safely and out of immediate use, keeping it fresh until the opportune moment. This practical act of preservation evolved into a common metaphor in the early 20th century for delaying or suspending a task, project, or decision, holding it in a "cool" state of readiness until it can be actively addressed.
Examples
- The board decided to put the merger negotiations on ice until after the new CEO takes office.
- We'll have to put our plans for a summer vacation on ice this year due to unexpected expenses.