...or bust

Posted by Lewis on January 06, 2006

In Reply to: ...or bust posted by pamela 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

...or bust?

you mean "**** or bust" surely?
being coy just isn't helpful.

L