Scupper

Along with Webster 1913's definitions below, scupper can also be used as a verb. To 'scupper' somebody is to stop them doing something, used in a similar way as to foil.

For example:
"Bryan scuppered George's evil plan of world domination."
Or:
"After their abyssmal game against Tenerife, the Isle of Wight's World Cup dreams were scuppered."

Scup"per (?), n. [OF. escopir, escupir, to spit, perhaps for escospir, L. ex + conspuere to spit upon; pref. con- + spuere to spit. Cf. Spit, v.] Naut.

An opening cut through the waterway and bulwarks of a ship, so that water falling on deck may flow overboard; -- called also scupper hole.

Scupper hose Naut., a pipe of leather, canvas, etc., attached to the mouth of the scuppers, on the outside of a vessel, to prevent the water from entering. Totten. -- Scupper nail Naut., a nail with a very broad head, for securing the edge of the hose to the scupper. -- Scupper plug Naut., a plug to stop a scupper. Totten.

© Webster 1913.