Ice-boxed

To be ice-boxed means to be deliberately and usually temporarily excluded, ignored, or suppressed. It often refers to a situation where someone or something is kept away from a discussion, decision-making process, or action, often to gain an advantage or to avoid dealing with something directly. The term evokes the image of being stored away, out of sight and mind, like food in an icebox to prevent its deterioration. The action is typically subtle and can occur in various contexts, from workplace politics to personal relationships. This tactic is generally perceived negatively, indicating a lack of transparency or fairness.

Ice-boxed meaning with examples

• During the negotiations, the committee ice-boxed the proposal from the opposition, effectively sidelining their suggestions and controlling the conversation's direction. Their silence on the matter for several weeks was an attempt to make the rival proposal lose momentum, and the eventual discussion of its contents was delayed and strategically framed.
• Sarah felt ice-boxed by her team leader when she was not invited to the critical strategy meeting despite her expertise. This made her feel undervalued and left her without the context needed to perform her job. The leader later apologized, attributing it to a scheduling oversight, but Sarah wasn't sure if she had been deliberately excluded.
• The company's new product launch was ice-boxed due to the high cost of the technology. The higher-ups were hoping to find a cheaper alternative, shelving the initial plans while they reconsidered their options. This resulted in considerable tension with the marketing and sales teams who were working to promote the product.
• After their argument, Mark ice-boxed his girlfriend by ignoring her calls and texts. He withdrew from the relationship by refusing all contact. This tactic caused her to feel isolated and frustrated, unsure how to address their conflict. The silent treatment further damaged the relationship and created an atmosphere of uncertainty.
• The author's manuscript was ice-boxed by the publisher's editor after initial excitement. The editor went silent and offered no further feedback. The publisher, concerned about the book's controversial themes, postponed publication indefinitely. The writer was left in limbo, feeling discouraged and uncertain about the book's future.