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Clean Bill of Health

⚓ Nautical Origin of A Clean Bill of Health:

Back in the 18th and 19th centuries, when ships traveled from port to port, they could carry more than just cargo—they might also bring diseases like cholera, plague, or yellow fever.

To prevent outbreaks, port authorities began requiring ships to present a “bill of health”—an official document from the last port of call confirming whether the area was free of contagious disease.

  • A “clean bill of health” meant the ship came from a healthy port—no known disease.
  • A “foul” or “suspect” bill might result in quarantine or denied entry.

This document helped protect port cities and coastal communities.

🧼 Modern Meaning:

Today, a “clean bill of health” means:

  • Someone has been declared healthy by a doctor.
  • Or metaphorically, that something has passed inspection, has no issues, or is in good condition

“After the annual inspection, the boat got a clean bill of health—no maintenance needed.”

From keeping ports safe to giving people peace of mind, the phrase has kept its reassuring tone across centuries.