Etymology Attested 1950, popularized in the Korean War (1950–53) in such phrases as “bug-out fever” (rout) and “the big bug out” (November/December 1950 retreat) and entered civilian slang by mid 1950s. Likely originated in World War II, perhaps based on 1930s cartoons featuring bugs fleeing an impending foot or boot. Ultimately based on the rapid, disorderly flight of bugs when discovered, particularly their scattering if several are discovered at once, such as under a rock or can. Compare chicken out.
Sir, the Prophet is bugging out. Request permission to engage!2004 November 9, Bungie, Halo 2, spoken by Miranda Keyes (Julie Benz), Microsoft Game Studios, Xbox, level/area: Metropolis:
It's time I bugged out of this town: it ain't safe no more.
She gets her nails done every Friday, so I know she's bugging out by now because her polish has moved up from the cuticle just a tiny bit, indicating that her nails ain't fresh. “Mickey, how the hell I'm just gone walk up to someone and[…]2006 September 26, L. Divine, Drama High: The Fight, Dafina Young Adult, →ISBN:
"That's 'cause I'm taking the train into the city right now," I said, "and she's bugging out about my missing it."2012 November 13, 50 Cent, Laura Moser, Playground, Penguin, →ISBN, page 89:
Etymology Attested 1950, popularized in the Korean War (1950–53) in such phrases as “bug-out fever” (rout) and “the big bug out” (November/December 1950 retreat) and entered civilian slang by mid 1950s. Likely originated in World War II, perhaps based on 1930s cartoons featuring bugs fleeing an impending foot or boot. Ultimately based on the rapid, disorderly flight of bugs when discovered, particularly their scattering if several are discovered at once, such as under a rock or can. Compare chicken out.