Meaning of governess-ship in English:
governess-ship
Pronunciation /ˈɡʌv(ə)nɪsʃɪp/ /ˈɡʌv(ə)nɛsʃɪp/
noun
The occupation or position of governess; the tenure of such a position.
Origin
Early 19th century; earliest use found in William Marshall Craig (d. 1827), painter. From governess + -ship.