busthead

In Appalachian and Southern speech, "busthead" (also "bust-head" or "bust head") is an old slang term for harsh, cheap whiskey or moonshine so strong it could "bust your head." It’s a vivid warning word for rotgut liquor.

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Hillbilly Dude Says...

We never heard 'busthead' growin' up - but I'd recommend avoidin' it.

Pronunciation

[BUST-hed]

Meaning & Usage

- Cheap or harsh moonshine (noun/dialect)

Mae:

Is this the good stuff?

Earl:

Nah - that’s busthead, knock-you-down rotgut.

- Any low-quality whiskey or strong drink (noun/dialect)

Mae:

He spent his pay on busthead and cards.

other spellings: bust-head

★ "Busthead" evokes the rough side of moonshine culture - a cousin to "popskull" or "rotgut." Many places in Virginia and West Virginia even bear the name "Busthead" from old taverns or bootlegging days. ★

Origin

From 19th-century American slang, likely "bust" + "head," describing liquor so strong it could "bust your head." Documented in Appalachian court cases, local histories, and Prohibition raids, especially in Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee.

Notes

Once a common moonshine term across the Southern mountains. Rare today outside of historical references, folk songs, or local place names. Still instantly colorful for describing rotgut whiskey or strong drink.

Say It Like a Southerner

Said plain: "busthead." Also appears as "bust-head" or "bust head."

Kin Topics

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Common Questions

Is busthead always moonshine?

Not necessarily - it can mean any cheap, harsh whiskey, but often refers to bad moonshine.

Do people still say it today?

Mostly older speakers or in historical/folklore contexts.

Why "busthead"?

Because the liquor’s so strong it could "bust your head" or leave you with a pounding headache.