What does scutcher mean?
A scutcher is an informal, mildly insulting name for a cheeky or contemptible person, especially a child or young person behaving mischievously. The term conveys annoyance and fond exasperation more often than serious hostility: calling someone a scutcher can express irritation while also implying that they are energetic, brazen, or too clever for their own good. It is especially associated with British and Irish English, but its meaning is broadly intelligible elsewhere. In everyday speech, the word often appears in exclamations such as “you cheeky scutcher!” and can be used affectionately when teasing a child. It is not a formal term and should generally be reserved for casual contexts in which disparagement or playful banter is appropriate.
nounAn unpleasant or contemptible person; a rascal or nuisance.
- An unpleasant, cheeky, or contemptible person; a rascal.
"That little scutcher has been blaming everyone else for the damage."
"That little scutcher has been stealing fruit from the garden."
"You cheeky scutcher! Give the money back."
Plural is used when referring to more than one person of this kind.
"Those scutchers have covered the walls in mud."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does scutcher come from?
The word is an alteration of Scots “scutcher,” traditionally meaning an unpleasant or contemptible person. Its ultimate origin is uncertain, and it has also been associated with the notion of one who skulks or behaves furtively. The modern English form developed chiefly through British and Irish usage.
How scutcher is actually used
Informal and mildly disparaging; chiefly British and Irish English, though also understood in other English-speaking regions.