Crossword Dictionary

What's The Definition Of Busk?

\Busk\ (b[u^]sk), n. [F. busc, perh. fr. the hypothetical older form of E. bois wood, because the first busks were made of wood. See {Bush}, and cf. OF. busche, F. b[^u]che, a piece or log of wood, fr. the same root.] A thin, elastic strip of metal, whalebone, wood, or other material, worn in the front of a corset. Her long slit sleeves, stiff busk, puff verdingall, Is all that makes her thus angelical. --Marston.
\Busk\, v. t. & i. [imp. & p. p. {Busked} (b[u^]skt).] [OE. busken, fr. Icel. b[=u]ask to make one's self ready, rexlexive of b[=u]a to prepare, dwell. Cf. 8th {Bound}.] 1. To prepare; to make ready; to array; to dress. [Scot. & Old Eng.] Busk you, busk you, my bonny, bonny bride. --Hamilton. 2. To go; to direct one's course. [Obs.] Ye might have busked you to Huntly banks. --Skelton.
\Busk\ (b[u^]sk), n. Among the Creek Indians, a feast of first fruits celebrated when the corn is ripe enough to be eaten. The feast usually continues four days. On the first day the new fire is lighted, by friction of wood, and distributed to the various households, an offering of green corn, including an ear brought from each of the four quarters or directions, is consumed, and medicine is brewed from snakeroot. On the second and third days the men physic with the medicine, the women bathe, the two sexes are taboo to one another, and all fast. On the fourth day there are feasting, dancing, and games.