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

And this boat needs to be capsized. — Mike Thomas, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 June 2026

And this may be just the start for Kim, who will soon also commission the Kang Kon warship that capsized during launch last May. — Stella Kim, NBC news, 24 June 2026

The boat capsized, and the 14 passengers were hurtled into the bay. — Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 23 June 2026

During the approximately two-week trial, jurors heard testimony from Pino's wife and several of Fernandez's friends who were on the boat at the time of the crash, who recalled the chaotic situation as the boat capsized. — Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 22 June 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