noun

buster

BUHS-tuh

noun

A person or thing that breaks, destroys, or gets rid of something specified (often as the second half of a compound word).

"The company markets itself as a "myth buster," debunking bad science."

"He's a real stress-buster to have around the office."

An informal, friendly form of address for a man, similar to "buddy" or "pal."

"Take it easy, buster."

How to Use Buster

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomething that smashes or eliminates a specific thing (crime-buster, ghostbuster), or a casual way to address a man.

Common pairings

ghostbuster crime buster listen here, buster

Word Forms

busters plural

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The company markets itself as a "myth _____," debunking bad science.

Etymology

Originally a dialect form of "burster," later shaped by association with the verb bust. The "-buster" ending became especially popular after radio's Gang Busters and the film Ghostbusters.

Rhymes for buster

muster luster duster Custer cluster bluster Shuster thruster Schuster adjuster filibuster blockbuster

See all rhymes for buster →