Phrase guide
Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.
Sound
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verb
To dance.
Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract
Usage: idiomatic, transitive
Qualifier: African-American Vernacular
Synonyms: cut a rug
Antonyms: none provided
verb
To initiate an action, such as a departure, attack, etc.
Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract
Usage: idiomatic, transitive
Qualifier: African-American Vernacular
Synonyms: get in gear, hit the road, make a move
Antonyms: none provided
History
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."
