Bust Definition & Meaning

bust
adjective
  1. lacking funds; "`skint' is a British slang term"
noun
  1. a complete failure; "the play was a dismal flop"
  2. the chest of a woman
  3. a sculpture of the head and shoulders of a person
  4. an occasion for excessive eating or drinking; "they went on a bust that lasted three days"
verb
  1. ruin completely; "He busted my radio!"
  2. search without warning, make a sudden surprise attack on; "The police raided the crack house"
  3. separate or cause to separate abruptly; "The rope snapped"; "tear the paper"
  4. go to pieces; "The lawn mower finally broke"; "The gears wore out"; "The old chair finally fell apart completely"
  5. break open or apart suddenly and forcefully; "The dam burst"

"Bust" in song lyrics

See how bust is used in real songs:

  • "FBI tried to bust"
    4 Deep — Can't Turn Back
  • "When there's beef best believe we bust"
    504 Boyz f/ Afficial, Curren$y — War
  • "I'm sure one gon' bust"
    504 Boyz f/ Krazy — Roll Roll

Usage tips for "bust"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "bust" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for bust to find words that pair well.

Look up another word