The -Ship in Friendship Is Not the Vessel
A ship is a large vessel. The suffix -ship in words like hardship is a different word.
A ship is a large seagoing vessel. The suffix in *friendship*, *hardship* and *scholarship* is an entirely separate word: Old English *-scipe*, related to *shape*, meaning a condition or state of being. Friendship is the state of being a friend, not a boat carrying them. Traditionally a ship is distinguished from a boat by size and by the old rule that a ship can carry a boat but not the reverse; submariners call their vessels boats regardless.
- A large vessel. *A cargo ship.*
- To send goods. *Shipping an order.*
- -ship — a state of being. *Friendship.*
- Shape — the suffix's relative. *Shape.*
- Old English — *scip*. *The vessel.*
Word forms
| Form | Word | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Noun | ship | A ship. |
| Verb | ship | Shipping. |
| Noun | shipment | A shipment. |
| Suffix | -ship | Friendship. |
| Old English | scipe | A condition. |
- The ship left port.Vessel.
- They shipped it overnight.Verb.
- Friendship is a state, not a boat.Suffix.
Ship or boat?
- Size is the usual rule, though no line is fixed
- A ship can carry a boat, not the other way round
- Submarines are always called boats by their crews
- Ships traditionally cross open ocean; boats work inshore
- Calling a ship a boat is a reliable way to irritate a sailor
Old English *scip*, a ship. The suffix is Old English *-scipe*, a state or condition, related to *shape*.
Is the -ship in friendship the same as a ship?
No. The suffix comes from an Old English word meaning a state or condition, related to shape.
What is the difference between a ship and a boat?
Chiefly size, with the traditional rule that a ship can carry a boat but not the reverse. Submarines are an exception.