MS

abbreviationStandard termMaritime

A prefix used before a ship's name to indicate it is powered by an internal combustion engine.

MS stands for motor ship. It designates a vessel propelled by a diesel or internal combustion engine rather than steam or sail. While less common in casual speech, it remains a standard prefix in official registries and maritime documentation to distinguish a ship's propulsion type.

Heard on the job

The MS Marco Polo is scheduled to berth at terminal four this afternoon.

Also heard as

  • M/S
  • MV