An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

A ship or other vessel.

Etymology (EN): M.E., from O.E. cræft “strength, skill;” cf. Ger. Kraft, D. kracht, O.N. kraptr. The “ship” meaning comes from the expression “vessel of small craft (trade).”

Etymology (PE): Nâv “ship;” O.Pers./Av. *nāv-, O.Pers. nāviyā- “fleet;” cf. Skt. nau-, nava- “ship, boat;” Gk. naus.