capsize

verb

cap·​size ˈkap-ˌsīz 

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

Synonyms of capsize

• overturn
• collapse
• keel
• upset

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

Weeks later, Harris and his brother went fishing in Suisun Bay, where their boat capsized, and Harris was reported missing. — Rena Rowe, The Washington Examiner, 30 Sep. 2026

The Coast Guard said the makeshift boat capsized late Sunday after a fight in which some people were severely injured by a machete, forcing the group to jump into the water despite not wearing life vests. — Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 29 Sep. 2026

The vessel reportedly capsized late Sunday night about 10 miles off Mona Island, according to the Coast Guard. — ABC News, 29 Sep. 2026

At least 12 people died and dozens remained missing after a vessel carrying more than 50 passengers capsized on Lake Kivu in eastern Congo; about 15 people were rescued. — Los Angeles Times, 28 Sep. 2026

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

Rhymes for capsize

• advise
• applies
• apprise
• arise
• assize
• baptize
• belies
• bitwise
• chastise
• chordwise
• clockwise
• coastwise

Kids Definition

capsize

verb

cap·​size ˈkap-ˌsīz 

kap-ˈsīz

capsized; capsizing

: to become or cause to become upset or overturned : turn over

canoes capsize easily