capsize

UK: kapˈsʌɪz | US: ˈkæpˌsaɪz

Definition

  1. vt. & vi. To overturn or cause to overturn, especially of a boat or ship in water.

Structure
cap <head>size <to sink>
Etymology

cap<head> + size<to sink>

  • cap (from Latin caput, meaning "head")
  • size (from Old French sise, meaning "to sink" or "settle," influenced by Spanish chapar, meaning "to overturn")

Etymology Origin:
The word "capsize" likely emerged in the late 18th century, blending the idea of a vessel's "head" (front or top) being submerged ("sized" or sunk). It may have been influenced by Spanish nautical terminology, where chapar described a ship overturning. The morphemes reflect the physical action of a boat flipping—its "head" going downward.

Examples

  1. The sudden storm caused the small boat to capsize.

  2. Be careful not to capsize the canoe when stepping in.

  3. The ferry capsized after hitting a hidden reef.

  4. Strong winds can easily capsize an unstable vessel.

  5. Rescuers arrived quickly after the yacht capsized.