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

In the high north, they pose an additional threat: Sea spray carried at high wind speeds can freeze upon contact with a ship and, if allowed to build up, capsize it.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Before the U.S. military strikes, he said, his main concerns were capsizing, drowning and arrest.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The Queen Jenuvia 2 is stuck on a reef and unable to move, but there is currently no risk of sinking or capsizing, according to the Coast Guard.

Read more on BBC

The tables capsize and roll toward the window on my right.

Read more on Literature

Simon made a comic show of being capsized, but as he had often proved, he had sea legs enough to weather storms far worse than this.

Read more on Literature