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hustle†
DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
Entry from the DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
This entry may contain outdated or offensive information, terms, and examples.
1v.
exert oneself in order to succeed or get ahead.
Quotations
1889
We have the making of a good club, and with practice they will make the other clubs in the Territori[e]s hustle.
1911
A fellow's got to hustle a bit if he's going to make good in this blamed country.
2v. — Slang
be employed in selling or serving (something); sell (something) in an aggressive manner.
Quotations
1887
She hustled the hash at Gilhooley's on Blank St.
1894
Almost every second man you meet is said to be a university man, or the son of some high and mighty family at home, and is now either 'hustling lumber' or farming at four or five dollars a week.
1902
Some weeks ago we took a run down to Macleod to hustle up business for The Eye Opener.
1963
Canadian Pacific Airlines chief Grant MacConachie is not above hustling tickets on his airline.