Define Clipper Ship [work] »
A clipper ship was a type of sailing vessel that originated in the mid-19th century, characterized by its sleek design, large sail area, and exceptional speed. These ships were built for speed and efficiency, revolutionizing the way goods and people traveled across the world's oceans.
Unlike the boxy, slow-moving merchant ships (often called "Johnnies" or tramps) that prioritized maximum cargo hold, the clipper was an exercise in aerodynamic and hydrodynamic compromise. It sacrificed internal volume for a streamlined form. Key physical characteristics include: define clipper ship
