Capsize: meaning, definitions and examples

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capsize

 

[ ˈkæp.saɪz ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

on a boat

Capsize means to overturn or turn on its side, usually referring to a boat or ship. This can happen due to strong winds, large waves, or improper weight distribution.

Synonyms

overturn, overturn, overturn, upset

Examples of usage

  • The boat capsized in the stormy sea.
  • The canoe capsized when they all leaned to one side.
Context #2 | Noun

general

Capsize as a noun refers to the act of overturning or tipping over, especially in the context of a boat or ship. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a sudden and complete failure or collapse.

Synonyms

overturning, overturning, overturning, upset

Examples of usage

  • The capsize of the ship was a tragic event.
  • The economic capsize led to widespread unemployment.

Translations

Translations of the word "capsize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 virar

🇮🇳 उलटना

🇩🇪 kentern

🇮🇩 terbalik

🇺🇦 перекинутися

🇵🇱 wywrócić się

🇯🇵 転覆する (てんぷくする)

🇫🇷 chavirer

🇪🇸 volcarse

🇹🇷 alabora olmak

🇰🇷 전복되다

🇸🇦 ينقلب

🇨🇿 převrátit se

🇸🇰 prevrátiť sa

🇨🇳 倾覆 (qīngfù)

🇸🇮 prevrniti se

🇮🇸 velta

🇰🇿 құлау

🇬🇪 გადაბრუნება

🇦🇿 aşmaq

🇲🇽 volcarse

Etymology

The word 'capsize' originated from the French word 'capace' meaning 'head over heels'. It was first used in English in the 18th century to describe ships overturning in the sea. The term has since been widely used in nautical contexts as well as metaphorically to signify sudden failures or collapses.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,074 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.