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.
Authorities in Alaska have recovered two bodies after a crew of five went missing earlier this month when their boat capsized. Angel Saunders, People.com, 12 Dec. 2024 President-elect Trump’s nomination of Pete Hegseth to be secretary of Defense was listing badly but had not yet capsized on Wednesday evening. Niall Stanage, The Hill, 4 Dec. 2024 Crews were battling challenging conditions as the area where the boat capsized was hit with heavy snow, winds up to 45 to 60 mph, and 6-foot seas. Thao Nguyen, USA TODAY, 3 Dec. 2024 Three different boats either capsized or went missing in Sonoma County during the month of November. Isha Trivedi, The Mercury News, 1 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 21 Dec. 2024.

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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