...or bust

Posted by Pamela on January 06, 2006

In Reply to: ...or bust posted by ESC on January 06, 2006

: : What does the phrase "...or bust" mean and where did originated from? As in, "California or bust!"

: I believe "bust" has this meaning:

: Main Entry: 4bust
: Variant(s): or bust·ed /'b&s-t&d/
: Function: adjective
: : BANKRUPT, BROKE Go bust.
: (Merriam-Webster online)

: Get to California or go broke trying. I'm not sure why it is "bust."

Bust is commonly used when playing cards - e.g. in Blackjack you go bust if your score is over 21. Pamela

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