1. To deliberately sink a ship or vessel. This is the most common usage, often used in wartime or when a ship is deemed unfit for service.
Example: "The pirates scuttled the enemy ship after capturing its treasure."
2. To run away quickly and secretly. This usage is less common and often refers to a hurried, almost cowardly retreat.
Example: "The thief scuttled away with the stolen jewels."
3. To move about quickly and quietly. This usage is related to the previous one and often describes the movement of small animals.
Example: "The mice scuttled through the shadows."
4. To abandon or give up completely. This usage is less common and usually refers to a plan or project.
Example: "The company scuttled its plans to expand into the new market."
To understand the exact meaning of "scuttled" in a particular context, it is important to pay attention to the surrounding words and the overall meaning of the sentence.