E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Ship-shape.
As methodically arranged as things in a ship; in good order. When a vessel is sent out temporarily rigged, it is termed “jury-rigged” (i.e. jour-y, meaning pro tem., for the day or time being). Her rigging is completed while at sea, and when the jury-rigging has been duly changed for ship-rigging, the vessel is in “ship-shape,” i.e. due or regular order.
