The Collaborative International Dictionary
or bust
bust \bust\ (b[u^]st), v. i.
To break or burst. [informal]
(Card Playing) In blackjack, to draw a card that causes one's total to exceed twenty-one.
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To go bankrupt.
to go bust to go bankrupt.
or bust or collapse from the effort; -- used in phrases expressing determination to do something; as, Oregon or bust, meaning ``We will get to Oregon or die trying.''
Usage examples of "or bust".
Mars Buck he loaded up his gun en 'lowed he's gwyne to fetch home a Shepherdson or bust.
This dethly stillness made me oneasy, and I determined to talk to the female or bust.
You accidentally smash a window or bust down a door, and I swear I'll never take you on a case with me again.