Shanghai
/ˈʃæŋ.haɪ/noun
To compel or deceive someone into joining a ship’s crew, especially by force or trickery.
Did you know?The verb arose from nineteenth-century maritime slang because Shanghai was a major destination for forcibly recruited sailors, though the practice occurred across many routes.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Chinese
Chinese
上海
““Upon the sea”: 上 means “above” or “upon,” and 海 means “sea.””
19th Century
English
Shanghai
“The English name for the Chinese port city, a major destination in Pacific maritime trade.”
Mid-19th Century
American English
shanghai
“To obtain a sailor by coercion, deception, or intoxication for involuntary service aboard a ship.”
Late 19th Century
English
shanghai
“To kidnap or forcibly recruit someone for any purpose, extending beyond maritime labor.”
Modern English
English
shanghai
“To compel, deceive, or maneuver someone into an unwanted situation or undertaking.”
Explore more surprising origins