bust a move

English

Etymology

Ellipsis of bust out a move (“break out a move”), in reference to unveiling or demonstrating a move from one's repertoire of dance moves. The original usage of this phrase is "to dance." The term appeared in the 1986 song “Posse in Effect” by Beastie Boys, in which M.C.A. said “Pay attention, my intention is to bust a move.” It was then popularized in the 1989 single of the same name by rapper Young MC, who tells (in the song) of his several attempts to find (or seduce) a woman in various places and failing to be able to do so because he can't dance; he isn't able to "bust a move."

Pronunciation
  • IPA(key): /ˈbʌst ə ˈmuːv/
  • Audio (AU)(file)
  • Rhymes: -uːv

Verb

bust a move (third-person singular simple present busts a move, present participle busting a move, simple past and past participle busted a move or bust a move)

  1. (African-American Vernacular, idiomatic, transitive) To dance.
    Damn, see that guy on the dance floor? He can bust a move! That, my friend, is groovin'.
  2. (African-American Vernacular, idiomatic, transitive) To seduce, make a move on.
    I'm gonna bust a move on that fine ass bitch.
  3. (African-American Vernacular, idiomatic, transitive) To flatulate.
    Jim went over to hit on that girl at the bar, but as he opened his mouth, he felt he was about to bust a move, so he continued toward the patio outside.
  4. (African-American Vernacular, idiomatic, transitive) To evade.
    "Bust a move, it's The Man."
  5. (African-American Vernacular, idiomatic, transitive) To depart.
    "It's time to go. Let's bust a move."
  6. (African-American Vernacular, idiomatic, transitive) To save oneself from an awkward situation with a woman.
    "Hey, did you see Bob last night with that chick?" "Yeah, he had to bust a move and got laid."
  7. (African-American Vernacular, idiomatic, transitive) To attempt, make, or strike a blow.
    What you looking at me like that for? C'mon man, bust a move if you're feeling froggy.

See also
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