shipshape
|ship-shape|
B2
/ˈʃɪpˌʃeɪp/
neat and tidy
Etymology
Etymology Information
'shipshape' originates from the nautical term 'ship' and the word 'shape', where 'ship' referred to a vessel and 'shape' meant 'condition'.
Historical Evolution
'shipshape' evolved from the phrase 'ship shapen', used in the 17th century to describe a ship in good condition, and eventually became the modern English word 'shipshape'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'in good condition for a ship', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'neat and tidy'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
in good order; neat and tidy.
The captain ensured everything was shipshape before setting sail.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/07/26 04:25