English grammar dictates using “it” for inanimate objects and “he” or “she” for people. Yet, a longstanding maritime tradition refers to ships as “she.” This practice, rooted in history, raises the question: Why Are Ships Called She? While outdated explanations attributed this to sexist notions of needing a man to control a ship or a ship’s unpredictable nature, like a woman, the real reasons are more nuanced.
The Origins of “She” for Ships
The feminization of ships emerged in the early 18th century alongside the rise of shipping. A male-dominated industry, early sailors often developed personal connections with their vessels, leading to the use of “she.” This was further reinforced by:
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Personal Relationships: Sailors spend long periods at sea, relying on their ships for safety and livelihood. This fostered a deep bond, similar to a relationship, making the use of “she” feel natural. As with beloved pets, assigning gendered pronouns to objects of affection is common.
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Religious and Mythological Associations: Historically, goddesses and mother figures were often associated with protection and nurturing. Naming ships after female deities, like Christopher Columbus’s “La Santa Maria” (named after the Virgin Mary), reinforced the feminine connection. This reflected a broader cultural belief in feminine power linked to nature and life-giving forces.
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Linguistic Roots: The Latin word for ship, “navis,” is grammatically feminine. This might have influenced Romance languages and subsequently English nautical terminology. While not a definitive cause, it likely contributed to the existing cultural context.
A Relic of the Past?
The “ship as she” tradition is gradually declining. Modern style guides and many maritime publications now advocate for using “it” to refer to ships, acknowledging that gendering inanimate objects can be viewed as outdated and inappropriate. The Cambridge Dictionary, for example, notes that while traditional styles used “she,” it’s now considered inappropriate by many.
This shift aligns with broader societal movements towards gender neutrality and reflects a move away from traditional, often sexist, maritime culture. While “she” may linger in casual conversation and some nautical circles, the official language of shipping is moving towards a more inclusive “it.”
Conclusion: Why Are Ships Called She?
The practice of calling ships “she” stems from a confluence of historical, cultural, and linguistic factors. While rooted in a bygone era with different social norms, understanding the origins of this tradition provides valuable insight into the evolution of language and the changing relationship between humans and the sea. Although its use is diminishing, the “ship as she” phenomenon remains a fascinating linguistic curiosity.
