pitchpole

/ˈpɪt͡ʃpoʊl/

Etymology

From pitch + pole.

pitchpole means To capsize end over end, as in heavy surf. Lexicurio rates it Sui generis — a strength score of 91 out of 100.

Why this word is great

PITCHPOLE — [Verb] To capsize a boat or vessel end over end, typically in heavy surf. From pitch (to plunge or fall forward) + pole, an alteration of poll (meaning the head or top). Unlike "capsize," a generic overturning, or "careen," a deliberate lateral heel, to pitchpole is a specific, violent surrender to physics. It is the stern caught and held by a following sea while the bow plummets forward; the sickening pivot as the world upends; the mast describing a terrible, slow arc to spear the oncoming wave. The word is a compact chronicle of force exceeding design, a perfect, dreadful somersault into the indifferent deep.

verb

To capsize end over end, as in heavy surf.“Pitchpoling is the most dangerous way a boat can capsize.”