Meaning

To ditch a failing venture or group.

Origin

From 19th-century seafaring, tied to sailors; jump ship meant desert, slang by 1850s for quit. A 1888 'Times' uses it for a crew bolt.

Variants

  • Jump the ship

Usage Examples

  • He jumped ship when the firm tanked.
  • She's jumping ship; new job calls.
  • Jump ship; project's doomed!

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