Why do boats have girls' names?
Question
Why are boats always called girls instead of boys? We always refer to them as she.Jasmine, aged 8
Answer
Name: Kalika, Rickmansworth
Qualification: I heard it on the Mystery Hour
Answer: In the 1600s, Kings used to name their ships after their mistresses and girlfriends to show that they loved them without having to give it away.
(James O’Brien: I’m pretty sure you’re not right. And if you heard it on my show, then I’m qualified to say that!)
Name: Keta
Answer: In all European languages, vessels that contain things are female, so in French “la”. Therefore, we name them as females as Old English was heavily influenced by these languages.
Name: Chris, Woodford
Qualification: Hilarious!
Answer: Ships have always been male or female in name – the Lord Nelson for example. But if you look at ships, they can be cantankerous and you have to treat them with love and care. Hence, they are named after women!