verb
scotch
To prevent something from happening or continuing.
The manager scotches any suggestion of closing the store early.
Etymology
Probably from an older cutting verb. Cutting or injuring developed toward disabling or preventing; the Scotland adjective is separate.
More examples
- Heavy rain scotched our plans for a picnic.
- The company issued a statement to scotch rumors of layoffs.
- Her firm refusal scotched any hope of a compromise.
Forms
scotch · scotches · scotched · scotching