Definition

To support or fantasize about a romantic relationship between two characters in fiction, often abbreviated from 'relationship.' A fan who ships characters actively hopes they become a couple in the story.

Example Usage

I ship those two characters so hard; their chemistry is undeniable.

Origin

Derived from the word 'relationship'; popularized in fan communities in the 1990s.

Fun Fact

The term originated in Star Trek fandom with fans who supported the romantic pairing of Kirk and Spock, imagining adventures on a starship together.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)