bug out

phr.v. to leave a place very fast, often because of a problem or danger.

phr.v. to depart a location hastily, often in response to an emergency or perceived threat.

“When the police arrived at the party, everyone started to bug out through the back door.”

“As soon as the alarm sounded, the security team had to bug out before the perimeter was completely compromised.”

Slang · American English

phr.v. to become very worried, angry, or upset about something.

phr.v. to experience a sudden state of panic, agitation, or irrational behaviour.

“Don't bug out just because you missed the bus; there is another one in ten minutes.”

“He started to bug out when he realised he had left his passport in the taxi on the way to the airport.”

Slang · Informal

phr.v. when your eyes open very wide because you are shocked or surprised.

phr.v. to cause the eyes to protrude or bulge, typically as a physiological response to shock or intense surprise. Can be transitive or intransitive.

“His eyes bugged out when he saw the massive bill for the car repairs.”

“The sheer audacity of the request made her bug her eyes out in disbelief before she could even formulate a response.”

Slang · Informal

n. a fast move away from a place to avoid trouble.

n. a rapid or emergency retreat from a position. Used as a compound noun.

“The soldiers prepared for a bug out as the enemy approached their camp.”

“The survivalist kept a 'bug-out bag' packed with essentials in case a sudden evacuation became necessary.”

Slang · Technical