Bust-a-gut


bust a gut
Also, burst a gut.
Exert one-self to the utmost. For example, He was busting a gut trying to please her . This hyperbolic term alludes to hurting one’s mid-section through physical straining. The first slangy term dates from the early 1900s, the variant from about 1700. For a synonym, see break one’s ass
Explode with strong feeling, especially laughter or anger. For example, Gene almost bust a gut laughing, or The foreman will burst a gut when he learns that the machine isn’t repaired. The former dates from the late 1800s, the latter from about 1940.

Read Also:

  • Bust-a-move

    bust a move

  • Busted-up

    Informal. to burst. to go bankrupt. to collapse from the strain of making a supreme effort: She was determined to make straight A’s or bust. Cards. Draw Poker. to fail to make a flush or straight by one card. Blackjack. to draw cards exceeding the count of 21. Informal. to burst. to bankrupt; ruin financially. […]

  • Bust-balls

    bust balls Contemporary Examples The Killing of a Park Ranger on Mount Rainier Reminds Us to Help Returning Soldiers Benjamin Tupper January 2, 2012

  • Bust-caps

    bust caps To fire the main gun of a tank To have a firefight (1970s+ Army)

  • Bust-chops

    Usually, chops. the jaw. chops. the oral cavity; mouth. Slang. the embouchure or technique necessary to play a wind instrument. Slang. musical ability on any instrument, especially in playing jazz or rock; technical virtuosity. Slang. the music or musical part played by an instrumentalist, especially a solo passage. an entranceway, as into a body of […]


Disclaimer: Bust-a-gut definition / meaning should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional. All content on this website is for informational purposes only.