Pronunciation: [ʃˈɪp ˈɒf] (IPA) 
The phrase "ship off" means to send something or someone away, usually by ship. In terms of spelling, "ship" is transcribed as /ʃɪp/, which represents the sounds "sh" and "ih" (as in "it"). "Off" is transcribed as /ɒf/ and represents the sounds "aw" (as in "law") and "f". Together, the phrase is pronounced as /ʃɪp ɒf/. It's important to remember that the "sh" sound is crucial to the correct pronunciation of this phrase.
The term "ship off" is a phrasal verb that denotes the act of sending, dispatching, or transporting someone or something to a specific destination or recipient. It typically refers to the departure or transfer of individuals, goods, or even ideas.
When used in relation to persons, "ship off" often implies the removal or relocation of someone, often against their will, to a different location. It can be applied to scenarios involving military personnel, prisoners, or individuals being sent away to boarding schools or similar institutions.
Regarding the transportation of goods or objects, "ship off" generally implies the process of arranging for items to be packed and sent through a shipping method or carrier. This can involve organizing and preparing the items for transport, completing necessary paperwork, and coordinating logistics to ensure delivery to the intended recipient.
Furthermore, "ship off" can also be employed metaphorically to describe the transfer or disposal of concepts, responsibilities, or tasks. It suggests passing on or relinquishing such matters, often to others who may be better suited or available to handle them. This can apply to professional contexts such as delegating work tasks, or in personal circumstances, such as passing on family heirlooms or traditions to the next generation.
Overall, "ship off" encompasses the idea of dispatching people, objects, or ideas from one location to another, with the specific destination or recipient varying depending on the context.
The phrase "ship off" combines the verb "ship" and the preposition "off". The term "ship" has its roots in Old English "scipian" which means "to send, dispatch, or transport by ship". The word "off" comes from Old English "of" which means "from". The combination of "ship" and "off" dates back to the early 17th century, referring to the act of sending or dispatching something or someone by ship to a different location. It is likely derived from the idea of "shipping out" or "moving away from the shore" when a ship departs. Over time, "ship off" has become synonymous with sending someone or something away, often with a connotation of being rid of them.
