Pronunciation: [klˈɪpə ʃˈɪp] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of "clipper ship" is /ˈklɪpər ʃɪp/. The word "clipper" refers to a sailing ship designed for speed, with a streamlined hull and tall masts. It is derived from the verb "clip," meaning to move rapidly. The addition of "ship" at the end of the word denotes that it is a type of vessel. The correct spelling ensures that the meaning of the word is clear and easily understood.
A clipper ship is a majestic sailing vessel characterized by its sleekness, agility, and exceptional speed. This type of ship emerged in the mid-19th century, primarily in America, responding to the growing demand for global maritime trade. The clipper ship design aimed to optimize for impressive speeds, as it was essential for carrying valuable cargoes, such as tea and spices, in the fastest way possible.
At a length of approximately 150 to 250 feet, clipper ships featured a distinctive construction characterized by a slender hull, a vast expanse of sail area, and a raked bow and sharp stern. These streamlined attributes drastically reduced water resistance, allowing the ship to slice through waves swiftly. Clipper ships were commonly three-masted and rigged as fully square-rigged or as a combination of square and fore-and-aft rigging.
The renowned clipper ships—the Flying Cloud, Cutty Sark, and Sea Witch—ushered in the golden age of sail in the mid-19th century. These vessels excelled in speed and thrilled sailors and ship enthusiasts alike. Inspired by their speed and grace, clipper ships became emblematic of maritime excellence and prosperity.
However, with the advent of steam-powered vessels in the late 19th century, the clipper ship era gradually waned. Steamships proved more reliable for long-distance trade due to their ability to maintain consistent speeds regardless of wind conditions. Nonetheless, clipper ships hold an indelible place in maritime history, symbolizing the pursuit of speed, elegance, and adventure on the high seas.
The term clipper ship derives from the word clip, which means to move swiftly or rapidly. It comes from the Old Norse word klippa, which means to cut or snip. The term clipper ship was first coined in the early 19th century to describe a type of fast sailing vessel. These ships were known for their ability to clip through the water with great speed, hence the name clipper ship.
