Definition of scuttles:
(v) :
(intransitive) To move hastily, to scurry.
(v) :
(transitive) To deliberately sink one's ship or boat by any means, usually by order of the vessel's commander or owner.
(v) :
(transitive, by extension) To undermine or thwart oneself or one's position or property, especially deliberately.
(v) :
(transitive, nautical) To cut a hole or holes through the bottom, deck, or sides of (as of a ship), for any purpose.
(v) :
(transitive, by extension) To deliberately wreck one's vehicle (of any sort).
(n) :
A container like an open bucket (usually to hold and carry coal).