Make building vocabulary fun with OWAD. Try to guess the meaning of the day’s word and learn not only its definition, but also the word’s history.
Yesterday’s term was one I was not familiar with: Bristol fashion.
Bristol fashion
noun phrase
- in good order; efficiently arranged
Collins Dictionary
Note: This phrase is often written in the extended form: “ship-shape and in Bristol fashion"
PHRASE ORIGIN
The phrase "Bristol fashion" (from 1827) has an interesting etymology rooted in the maritime history of the city of Bristol.
Although the earliest recorded use of this phrase dates back to 1827, the concept certainly existed earlier.
Maritime hub: During the 18th and 19th centuries, Bristol was a major port city on the west coast of Britain. It boasted a thriving maritime industry with high standards for ship maintenance.
Quality craftsmanship: Bristol's ship suppliers, providing materials and equipment, were renowned for their craftsmanship and attention to detail. This contributed to the city's reputation for ships being kept in top condition.
Bristol also has the second highest tidal range in the world, causing ships to lean over heavily at low tide. There is speculation that "Bristol fashion" humorously referred to ships being "righted" and put in good order after the tide came in.
The two phrases “ship-shape” and “Bristol fashion” merged in the mid-19th century and have become a standard phrase in English meaning “in excellent order”.