Definition of ship off

The expression "ship off" has its roots in the nautical world, where it's been used for centuries to describe the departure of a ship from its current location. The origin of the expression can be traced back to the 16th century, when the English language was evolving rapidly and sailors and merchants were expanding their trade networks across the world. In those times, ships were the primary mode of transportation for goods and people, and they often traveled long distances to reach their destinations. The phrase "ship off" originally referred to the process of loading a ship with cargo and preparing it for its voyage. The expression "ship" itself comes from the Old Norse word "skip," which means "a vessel used for transportation." As trade and exploration expanded, so did the need for more precise terminology to describe the various stages of a ship's journey. The phrase "ship off" evolved to denote the moment when a ship left its mooring or berth and began its voyage. It served as a way to differentiate between the departure of a ship and its arrival, which was often referred to as "ship in." Over time, the expression "ship off" has adopted a more figurative meaning, describing the departure of a person from a job, organization, or location. The use of "ship off" in this context is a metaphor that evokes the idea of setting sail on a new journey or adventure, while implying a sense of finality and closure to the departing person's previous circumstances.