Bushed: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'bushed' is believed to originate from the wild bush terrains in Australia, where travelers would feel exhausted after long journeys in the wilderness.
• It was first recorded in the 1940s among soldiers, referring to the fatigue after combat in rough terrains.
• The word is often associated with a sense of being lost or overwhelmed, which adds to its meaning of being worn out.

Pop Culture

• In some films and TV shows, characters use 'bushed' to express their fatigue after long adventures, adding comedic relief or dramatic tension.
• Musicians often use the term in lyrics to convey feelings of tiredness or burnout from fame and hectic schedules.
• The word appeared in various comic strips to convey the everyday struggles of tiredness in relatable humor.

Psychology

• Feeling 'bushed' can trigger stress responses in the body, leading to fatigue that affects both physical and mental health.
• People may use the term to describe not just physical tiredness, but emotional fatigue from everyday challenges.
• The state of being 'bushed' is closely linked to burnout, a condition recognized by health professionals.

Common Usage

• The word 'bushed' is often used in informal speech, particularly in North America, showcasing its relatable nature in everyday conversation.
• It can be used interchangeably with other expressions like 'exhausted' or 'worn out', but adds a casual, relaxed tone.
• Many people find the term humorous and like to use it after a long day at work or after a fun, exhausting outing.