noun
Uncommon
buster
BUHS-tuh
Buster (noun) means a person or thing that breaks, destroys, or gets rid of something specified (often as the second half of a compound word). Example: “The company markets itself as a "myth buster," debunking bad science.”
noun
1
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."
2
An informal, friendly form of address for a man, similar to "buddy" or "pal."
"Take it easy, buster."
How to use buster
Learner’s notesIn 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
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like buster.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- busters
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
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.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for buster
See all rhymes for buster →Frequently asked questions
What does “buster” mean?
The word “buster” means a person or thing that breaks, destroys, or gets rid of something specified (often as the second half of a compound word). In plain terms, something that smashes or eliminates a specific thing (crime-buster, ghostbuster), or a casual way to address a man.
How do you pronounce “buster”?
“Buster” is pronounced BUHS-tuh (/ˈbʌstɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “buster” in a sentence?
Here is “buster” used in a sentence: “The company markets itself as a "myth buster," debunking bad science.”
What part of speech is “buster”?
“Buster” is a noun.
Is “buster” a common word?
“Buster” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “buster” have?
“Buster” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person or thing that breaks, destroys, or gets rid of something specified (often as the second half of a compound word).
