shipshape

English

Etymology

ship +‎ shape; of nautical origin, based on the obligation of a sailor to keep his/her quarters arranged neatly and securely against the inevitable turbulence at sea. It also implies a neat and efficient packing to fit into the limited space typically allotted to service members aboard ship.

Adjective

shipshape (comparative more shipshape, superlative most shipshape)

1. meticulously neat and tidy
   • 1937, Captains Courageous, 01:44:00:

     -- When are you going out fishing again? -- Oh, in about six weeks, when we're shipshape aloft.

2. Organized, serviceable, trained and ready for action

Related terms

• shipshape and Bristol fashion