The term "posh" is an abbreviation for "port outward, starboard home," which refers to a luxurious passage on a ship from England to India. The passengers would travel in comfort and style on the port side (outward) while they sailed towards their destination, but then switch to the starboard side (home) when returning back across the ocean. Over time, "posh" has come to mean anything that is luxurious or elegant, often associated with upper-class lifestyles and sophisticated tastes.