capsize

[kap-sahyz, kap-sahyz]

verb (used with or without object)

capsized, capsizing 

1. to turn bottom up; overturn: With a strong kick he capsized the stool.

   The ferry capsized and sank in minutes.

   With a strong kick he capsized the stool.

2. to upset or collapse: He has a secret that could capsize his career.

   Their marriage almost capsized when they lost their only child.

   He has a secret that could capsize his career.

capsize

/ kæpˈsaɪz /

verb

1. to overturn accidentally; upset

Other Word Forms

• capsizable adjective
• noncapsizable adjective
• uncapsizable adjective
• uncapsized adjective
• capsizal noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of capsize¹

First recorded in 1780–90; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of capsize¹

C18: of uncertain origin

Synonym Study

See upset.

Example Sentences

He said 95 people were jammed on the 12-metre dinghy, with constant fear the boat would capsize.

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Nine people died on Tuesday after a rescue boat carrying flood victims capsized in the Indus River.

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Albanese told us that Israel "has completely capsized the current use of principles of distinction, principle of military necessity, precautions, and proportionality in international law".

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The reportedly overloaded boat, said to have been carrying about 100 passengers including women and children, capsized when it struck a submerged tree stump on the River Niger in the Borgu area on Wednesday morning.

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At least 69 people have died and many more are missing after a boat capsized off the coast of Mauritania, coastguards in the north-west African country have said.

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