Which ceremony marks the official naming and launching of a naval ship?

Which ceremony marks the official naming and launching of a naval ship?

• A. Commissioning
• B. Decommissioning
• C. Christening
• D. Launching

Answer: (C)

The ceremony that gives a ship its name and is traditionally tied to the moment it first enters the water is the christening. In naval customs, christening is the naming ceremony, often conducted during the launch when the hull is first put into the sea; a sponsor or godmother might break a bottle of champagne on the bow to symbolize blessing and naming. Commissioning is when the ship is officially placed into active service, decommissioning is retirement, and launching is the act of entering the water—though it can occur without the formal naming. Since this event centers on naming as part of the launch, christening best fits.

The ceremony that gives a ship its name and is traditionally tied to the moment it first enters the water is the christening. In naval customs, christening is the naming ceremony, often conducted during the launch when the hull is first put into the sea; a sponsor or godmother might break a bottle of champagne on the bow to symbolize blessing and naming. Commissioning is when the ship is officially placed into active service, decommissioning is retirement, and launching is the act of entering the water—though it can occur without the formal naming. Since this event centers on naming as part of the launch, christening best fits.