The Dutch roots of the word 'skipper'

'Skipper' is a word borrowed from Dutch 'schipper'. The word entered the English language some time around the 14th century.

skipper [noun] [14th century]

• the master of a ship
• the master of a fishing, small trading, or pleasure boat
• the captain or first pilot of an airplane
• a person in a position of leadership

See 'skipper' on the Loan Words Map

See more loan words from Dutch.

Etymology: Middle English, from Middle Dutch 'schipper' from 'schip' ship; akin to Old English 'scip' ship

See more loan words from 1300s.