capsize

verb

cap·​size ˈkap-ˌsīz How to pronounce capsize (audio)
kap-ˈsīz
capsized; capsizing

transitive verb

: to cause to overturn
capsize a canoe

intransitive verb

: to become upset or overturned : turn over
the canoe capsized
capsize noun

Examples of capsize in a Sentence

They were fooling around and accidentally capsized the canoe. a huge wave out of nowhere caused our little sailboat to capsize
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What's New At least eight people, including a child, have been confirmed dead after a speedboat carrying migrants capsized off the eastern Greek island of Rhodes on Friday morning. Gord Magill, Newsweek, 21 Dec. 2024 During the attack, the USS Oklahoma took multiple torpedo hits and capsized just 12 minutes after it was first hit, according to the Department of Defense. Kerry Breen, CBS News, 6 Dec. 2024 More than a dozen people are missing after a tourist yacht capsized in the Red Sea, authorities said. Abigail Adams, People.com, 25 Nov. 2024 Soon the truck capsized and the workers were swept away. Usa Today Graphics Team, USA TODAY, 31 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for capsize 

Word History

Etymology

perhaps from Spanish capuzar or Catalan cabussar to thrust (the head) underwater

First Known Use

1778, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of capsize was in 1778

Dictionary Entries Near capsize

Cite this Entry

“Capsize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/capsize. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

capsize

verb
cap·​size ˈkap-ˌsīz How to pronounce capsize (audio)
kap-ˈsīz
capsized; capsizing
: to become or cause to become upset or overturned : turn over
canoes capsize easily

More from Merriam-Webster on capsize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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