shipshape

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   neat, orderly, and in good working condition

   They finished the cellar job tight, secure, and shipshape.

2. 2
   adv

   in a neat, orderly, and seamanlike manner

   The crew stowed every line shipshape before leaving port.

From ship + shapen, the old past participle of shape, later remodeled as shipshape. On crowded vessels, gear had to be secured and kept in exact order; the nautical standard broadened to general neatness and readiness.

Topics