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

In Reynolds County, two rescue boats capsized in the flooding, but other emergency personnel safely recovered the responders, the Sheriff’s Office said. — Hallie Golden, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2026

ManilaReuters — At least 15 Indian tourists died when a boat capsized off Vietnam’s ​southern island of Phu Quoc on ‌Saturday, VnExpress reported, citing local authorities. — CNN Money, 11 July 2026

The cruise ship that capsized in Puerto Vallarta in 2021 and launched several gay notables into the sea. — Jp Brammer, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 July 2026

Waves can wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats nearshore. — Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 10 July 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