WordGarden.ioship
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /ʃˈɪp/
US
- /ˈʃɪp/
Meanings
Noun
a large boat or other vessel used to carry people or goods on water
(slang)a romantic pairing that fans support or imagine
Verb
to send goods or packages to a buyer, recipient, or destination
to release a product, feature, or software version for users or customers
(slang)to want two people or characters to be in a romantic relationship
Beyond the definition
A "ship" most commonly refers to a large boat used for travel on water, especially for carrying goods or people. Think of sailing ships from pirate stories or huge cargo ships bringing everything from bananas to bicycles. As a verb, it also means to send something, especially as part of delivery or trade, as in "We'll ship your order tomorrow." Online, "shipping" also means wanting two fictional characters, or sometimes real people, to be in a romantic relationship. So, whether it is crossing the sea, sending a package, or rooting for a favorite couple, "ship" has several common meanings.
The word "ship" originally and most literally refers to a large vessel designed to travel on water, used for transporting people or goods. From ancient galleys powered by oars to modern container ships that dominate global trade, the ship has been central to exploration, commerce, and warfare throughout history. You might read about "a fleet of ships" sailing into harbor or see images of a majestic "cruise ship" offering luxurious travel.
However, in recent years, "ship" (and its related verb form, "to ship") has gained significant traction as internet slang. In this context, it means to strongly support the romantic pairing of two people—often fictional characters, but sometimes real-life individuals. Fans "ship" characters from their favorite TV shows or books, creating fan fiction and artwork dedicated to imagining them together. For example, someone might say, "I really ship Harry Potter and Ginny Weasley!" meaning they believe those two would make a good couple. The origin of this usage is thought to come from the word "relationship," shortened and playfully altered.
Beyond boats and romance, "ship" can also be used as a verb meaning to send something—like "I'll ship the package tomorrow." This use comes from the original idea of sending goods on a ship.
So, whether you're picturing a towering sailboat, passionately advocating for a fictional couple, or simply arranging delivery of an item, "ship" is a versatile word with a rich history and evolving meaning.
Examples
- 1
Ocean view
We watched the ship disappear over the horizon.
- 2
Cruise work
She spent six months working on a cruise ship.
- 3
Transport method
The island gets fresh supplies by ship once a week.
- 4
Product delivery
The company ships its products to stores across the country.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Online order
Your order will be shipped within two business days.
- 6
Delivery status
My replacement phone still hasn't shipped.
- 7
Delivery cost
Shipping is free on orders over $50.
- 8
Leaving organization
Several senior staff jumped ship when the company stopped paying people.
- Phrasejump ship
leave a job or organization because it is failing
- 9
Delivery damage
One of the glasses was broken in shipping.
- Phrasein shipping
while it was being sent
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- cargo ship
- passenger ship
- aboard a ship
- ship sinks
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- shipnounverb
Forms
- shipspluralnounverb
- shipping-ing formverbnoun
- shippedpast tenseverbnoun