Find Synonyms
scupper Synonyms
Another word for scupper
Choosing another word for scupper depends on context, so the 14 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
• verb (Context 1)
To prevent a plan, deal, or enterprise from succeeding; to ruin or thwart.
Usage Example
"A sudden withdrawal of funding threatened to thwart the entire research project."
Strongest
thwart
foil
Strong
ruin
wreck
torpedo
sabotage
derail
spoil
frustrate
• noun (Context 2)
An opening in the side wall or bulwark of a ship at deck level, or in the parapet of a building or bridge, designed to allow water to drain off.
Usage Example
"Heavy seawater washed across the bow and poured back into the ocean through the scuppers."
Strong
drain
Weak
outlet
• verb (Context 3)
To sink a ship deliberately by making holes in its hull or opening its seacocks, often to keep it from falling into enemy hands.
Usage Example
"The crew received orders to scuttle the damaged vessel rather than let it be captured in port."
Strongest
scuttle
Strong
sink
submerge
Opposites of scupper
The opposite of scupper shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:
salvage
refloat
facilitate
promote
advance
bolster
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Scupper. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/scupper