capsize

American  

[kap-sahyz, kap-sahyz] / ˈkæp saɪz, kæpˈsaɪz /

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.

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capsize British  

/ kæpˈsaɪz /

verb

1. to overturn accidentally; upset

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Related Words

See upset.

Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of capsize

First recorded in 1780–90; origin uncertain

Example Sentences

A 2015 ferry capsizing off the western coast of Leyte Island resulted in more than 60 deaths.

From Barron's

"Then the ship immediately capsized," he said in an interview from his home, describing how panic quickly gripped the passengers.

From Barron's

“The supply shocks from either would already rock the boat; both together would capsize global markets like a perfect storm,” said Raj.

From MarketWatch

“The supply shocks from either would already rock the boat; both together would capsize global markets like a perfect storm,” said Raj.

From MarketWatch

At least 31 people drowned when an overloaded boat carrying undocumented migrants capsized on New Year's Eve off the coast of Gambia, the government said on Monday, hiking the previous toll.

From Barron's