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verb

capsize

kap-SYZ

Capsize (verb) means to turn over or roll over in the water, or to cause a boat to do so. Example: “The small dinghy capsized in the sudden squall.”

verb
1
To turn over or roll over in the water, or to cause a boat to do so.
"The small dinghy capsized in the sudden squall."
"A rogue wave capsized the kayak within seconds."

How to use capsize

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo flip over in the water, usually said of boats.

Common pairings
the boat capsized capsize in rough seas

Word forms

capsized past tense, capsizes plural, capsizes singular

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Fill the gap

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The small dinghy _____ in the sudden squall.

Etymology

First recorded in English in the late 1700s; its origin is uncertain, though it may be related to a Spanish word for sinking bow-first.

Origin: Spanish · First attested 1700

Class of 1700 capsize joined the language around 1700.
See the full Class of 1700 →
turtle turn turtle

Related words

Rhymes for capsize

See all rhymes for capsize →

Frequently asked questions

What does “capsize” mean?

The word “capsize” means to turn over or roll over in the water, or to cause a boat to do so. In plain terms, to flip over in the water, usually said of boats.

How do you pronounce “capsize”?

“Capsize” is pronounced kap-SYZ (/ˈkæpsaɪz/ in IPA).

How do you use “capsize” in a sentence?

Here is “capsize” used in a sentence: “The small dinghy capsized in the sudden squall.”

What part of speech is “capsize”?

“Capsize” is a verb.

Where does the word “capsize” come from?

The word “capsize” dates back to around 1700 and comes from Spanish. First recorded in English in the late 1700s; its origin is uncertain, though it may be related to a Spanish word for sinking bow-first.

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