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scupper

2 syllables

Quick answer

As a noun, scupper means a drainage hole on the deck of a ship. As a verb, it means thwart or destroy, especially something belonging or pertaining to another.

Meanings of scupper

5 meanings

noun

nauticalA drainage hole on the deck of a ship.
architectureA similar opening in a wall or parapet that allows water to drain from a roof.

verb

UKThwart or destroy, especially something belonging or pertaining to another.
“The bad media coverage scuppered his chances of being elected.”
Wait in hiding to attack
Similar: ambush, bushwhack, waylay, lurk, ambuscade, lie in wait
Put in a dangerous, disadvantageous, or difficult position
Similar: queer, expose, endanger, peril