I. ˈbəsəl verb
( bustled ; bustled ; bustling ˈbəs(ə)liŋ ; bustles )
Etymology: probably alteration of obsolete buskle to prepare, bustle about, freq. of busk (II)
intransitive verb
1.
a. : to move energetically and often with apparent purpose but usually noisily or inefficiently
she never bustles but she is constantly busy — Time
b. : hurry , hustle
the head waiter bustled up, full of apologies — Ian Bevan
2. obsolete : struggle , contend
3. : teem , crawl
all the river landings bustled with colorful activity — American Guide Series: Minnesota
transitive verb
: to cause to bustle : hurry , hustle
II. noun
( -s )
1. : a stir or commotion of bustling : noisy or energetic activity
the hustle and bustle of the city
2. archaic : struggle , scuffle
Synonyms: see stir
III. noun
( -s )
Etymology: origin unknown
: a framework (as of metal, whalebone, crinoline) or a padded cushion that expands and supports the fullness and drapery of the back of a woman's skirt in some former fashions ; also : a recurrent fashion adapted from this