upscuddle
A noisy quarrel or ruckus — mouths running, maybe fists flying.
Also called upscuttle.
Updated September 24, 2026
upscuddle pronunciation
/UP-skud-ul/
Meaning
Southern Appalachian word for a loud fuss or argument. Not a full-on deadly fight, more a ruction with voices raised and tempers hot. You caused quite an upscuddle. Also spelled upscuttle. If somebody says they're upscuddled meaning confused, that ain't the old mountain sense — this one's about the row itself.
How folks use it
- “You caused quite an upscuddle when you insulted that man's mama.”
- “Them two got into an upscuddle out by the barn.”
Origin and etymology
Chiefly southern Appalachian per DARE: a noisy quarrel or disturbance. Wayword Radio traces it to Irish and Scottish roots; older dialect scuttle meant joining a street feud. A 1913 quote stacks it with ruction, rippit, and jower for a quarrel short of a real fray. Scots-Irish settlement talk that stuck in the hills.
Frequently asked questions
Does upscuddle mean confused?
No. The documented mountain sense is a noisy quarrel. Upset and confused would be different words.