scotch 1
/skoch/ , v.t.
1. to put a definite end to; crush; stamp out; foil: to scotch a rumor; to scotch a plan.
2. to cut, gash, or score.
3. to injure so as to make harmless.
4. to block or prop with a wedge or chock.
n.
5. a cut, gash, or score.
6. a block or wedge put under a wheel, barrel, etc., to prevent slipping.
[ 1375-1425; late ME scocche (n. and v.), perh. b. SCORE and NOTCH ( > AF escocher ) ]
scotch 2
/skoch/ , v.t., n. Masonry.
scutch (defs. 2, 4).