Shipshape
/ˈʃɪpˌʃeɪp/noun
Neat, orderly, and in good condition, especially in a nautical context.
Did you know?The expression reflects the naval ideal that every rope, tool, and surface should be properly arranged and ready for immediate use at sea.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*skipą
“A hollowed-out or constructed vessel; the ancestor of English ship.”
Old English
Old English
scip
“A ship or boat.”
Old English
Old English
gesceap
“Form, creation, shape, or condition; the ancestor of English shape.”
Middle English
Middle English
ship
“A vessel used for travel or transport by water.”
17th Century
English
shipshape
“In proper order or condition, originally describing the orderly state expected aboard a ship.”
Modern English
English
shipshape
“Neat, orderly, and well maintained.”