gangbuster
gangbuster Lexical Profile
gangbuster Game Scores & Validity
• noun
North American Something that isoutstandingly energetic, forceful, or successful (usually used in the plural in the phrase "like gangbusters").
"The new software product has been selling like gangbusters since its launch last week."
North American A law enforcement officer or prosecutor who aggressively investigates and breaks up criminal gangs.
"The newly appointed district attorney quickly earned a reputation as a fearless gangbuster."
• adjective
North American Remarkably energetic, thriving, or wildly successful.
"The retail store is enjoying a gangbuster holiday season with record-breaking sales."
Word Nuance & Usage
The word is most frequently encountered in its plural form, "gangbusters," particularly in the informal idiom "like gangbusters" (meaning with great energy or success).
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in 1930s American English from "gang" and "buster," popularized by the dramatic 1935 radio crime drama "Gang Busters," which opened with loud sirens, whistles, and sound effects.