capsize

[ kap-sahyz, kap-sahyz ]

verb (used with or without object)

, cap·sized, cap·siz·ing.

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

Derived Forms

• capˈsizal, noun

Other Words From

• capsiz·a·ble adjective
• noncap·siza·ble adjective
• un·capsiz·a·ble adjective
• un·capsized adjective

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

Q: Trying to overthrow the Constitution and deliberately capsize the U.S. economy?

From The Daily Beast

Men may refuse the challenge of trying to right a ship on the verge of capsize, preferring to wait for an easier test.

From The Daily Beast

I am grieved to say that Mr. Billings remarked, "Let's go aboard the blank, and capsize the whole blank trunk."

From Project Gutenberg

The pace became so hot that a small obstacle would capsize the sledge, causing it to roll over and over down the slope.

From Project Gutenberg

Now all hung by a hair, we could not manage the boat and it must inevitably capsize and be swamped under this foaming crest.

From Project Gutenberg

Kiv-i-ung, who had never abused the boy, had gone out with the rest, but his kayak did not capsize.

From Project Gutenberg

He was a good swimmer, but he knew well that were his canoe to capsize he could not hope to survive long in these cold waters.

From Project Gutenberg