1 C1 idiomatic formal
(Sailing) Of a vessel: to accidentally turn broadside to the wind and sea, putting it at serious risk of capsizing.
"A rogue wave caused the yacht to broach to dangerously close to the rocky shore."
inseparable
broach to
C1 formal inseparable intransitive
(Nautical) To accidentally turn a vessel broadside to the wind and waves, risking capsizing.
In plain English
When a boat accidentally turns sideways to big waves and could tip over.
What does "broach to" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To turn a boat towards something — specifically, 'to' here refers to turning toward the wind, resulting in a dangerous broadside position.
Actually means
When a boat accidentally turns sideways to big waves and could tip over.
Usage tip
Strictly a nautical/sailing term. Not used outside this domain. Learners are unlikely to encounter it except in sailing literature or manuals. Do not confuse with the common verb 'broach' meaning to introduce a topic.
Words that pair with "broach to"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
vessel hull waves wind sea helm
How to conjugate "broach to"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
broach to
I/you/we/they
3rd person
broaches to
he/she/it
Past simple
broached to
yesterday
Past participle
broached to
have + pp
-ing form
broaching to
continuous
Hear "broach to" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "broach to" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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