Capsize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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capsize
[ˈkæp.saɪz ]
Definitions
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.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| capsize |
Typically used to describe when a boat or ship turns over in the water. It implies an accidental or unexpected event.
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| overturn |
Used to describe when an object, vehicle, or legal decision is turned over or reversed. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts.
|
| upset |
Often means to knock something over, usually not related to boats. It can also mean to disturb mentally or emotionally.
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Examples of usage
- The boat capsized in the stormy sea.
- The canoe capsized when they all leaned to one side.
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.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| capsize |
Usually used when talking about boats or ships. It implies that the vessel flips over in the water, often due to poor weather or instability.
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| overturning |
Applies to a variety of situations where anything, not just boats, flips over. It can refer to vehicles, containers, or even decisions.
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| upset |
This word has a negative connotation and can be used both literally and figuratively. Literally, it refers to causing something to tip over or spill. Figuratively, it means to disturb or distress someone emotionally.
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Examples of usage
- The capsize of the ship was a tragic event.
- The economic capsize led to widespread unemployment.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Safety
- Capsizing poses a significant risk for sailors, especially in stormy weather or rough seas.
- Modern boats often come equipped with buoyancy aids to prevent capsizing.
- Proper training and safety measures can significantly reduce the chances of a boat capsizing.
Navigation
- Capsizing can occur due to various factors, including poor weight distribution and sudden shifts in wind direction.
- Understanding navigation and wind patterns is crucial for sailors to avoid capsizing.
- Race boats are designed to be stable and avoid capsizing during high-speed maneuvering.
Pop Culture
- Capsizing scenarios are often dramatic plot points in movies and books, highlighting survival situations.
- Famous maritime disasters, like the Titanic, have drawn attention to the dangers of capsizing.
Science
- The physical reason behind capsizing involves the center of gravity and buoyancy principles.
- When the center of gravity shifts outside the hull's access to stability, it can lead to capsizing.
Origin of 'capsize'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the late 16th century, derived from the French 'capitser', which means to turn upside down.
- It has connections to the Latin word 'caput', meaning 'head', implying something tips over or turns on its head.
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.