shipping

noun

ship·​ping ˈshi-piŋ How to pronounce shipping (audio)
1
a
: passage on a ship
b
: ships
c
: the body of ships in one place or belonging to one port or country
2
: the act or business of one that ships

Examples of shipping in a Sentence

The fruit was ready for shipping. They protected our shipping from submarines during wartime.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
United’s form includes a notice about shipping costs being the passenger’s responsibility, though in some cases, a no-cost pickup at the airport can be arranged. Stacey Lastoe, AFAR Media, 12 May 2025 The beanbag chair’s weight may also impact shipping costs. Kathleen Felton, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 May 2025 Back in China, preliminary data have shown a sharp decline in shipping and other trade activity. Elaine Kurtenbach, Chicago Tribune, 9 May 2025 Notably, pre-tariff-announcement shipping levels were lower than historical levels for the U.S.’ top five trading partners, not just China. Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 9 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for shipping

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of shipping was in the 14th century

Cite this Entry

“Shipping.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shipping. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

shipping

noun
ship·​ping
ˈship-iŋ
1
: the body of ships in one place or belonging to one port or country
2
: the act or business of one that ships goods
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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