Langimage
English

bust

|bust|

B2

/bʌst/

breaking or arresting

Etymology
Etymology Information

'bust' originates from the Italian word 'busto,' which referred to the upper part of the body.

Historical Evolution

'busto' transformed into the French word 'buste,' and eventually became the modern English word 'bust' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'upper part of the body,' but over time it evolved to include meanings related to sculpture and breaking.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a sculpture of a person's head, shoulders, and chest.

The museum displayed a bust of the famous poet.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a woman's chest as measured around her breasts.

She has a bust measurement of 36 inches.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to break or smash something.

He accidentally busted the vase.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to arrest someone for a crime.

The police busted the gang for illegal activities.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Idioms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41