be bursting

phrase

1
: to be filled with something
The crate was bursting with fruit.
The dish is bursting with flavors.
Her parents were practically bursting with pride.
2
: to want very much to do (something one is not yet able to do)
I'm bursting to tell you the news, but I have to talk to Ken first.
3
British, informal : to need to urinate very badly

Cite this Entry

“Be bursting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/be%20bursting. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.

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