be bursting

idiom

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

Examples of be bursting in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And the music videos, as usual, will be bursting full of bright colors and energy similar to a children’s pizza party right before nap time. Sopan Deb, New York Times, 22 Jan. 2025 Here’s the thing, though: That sad handful of almonds could be bursting with flavor. Jancee Dunn, New York Times, 8 Jan. 2025

Cite this Entry

“Be bursting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/be%20bursting. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

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