bodice

noun

bod·​ice ˈbä-dəs 

1

: the upper part of a woman's dress

2

archaic : corset, stays

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The Fashionable History of Bodice

The term bodice is derived from body. One sense of the word body is “the part of a garment covering the body or trunk.” In the 17th and 18th centuries a woman’s corset was often called a “pair of bodies.” The plural bodies, or bodice, was eventually interpreted as a singular. Bodice is now most often used to refer to the upper part of a woman’s dress.

Learn more about bodice history

Examples of bodice in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Back then, adorned with a classic big black bow, her hair reached her twill shoulders with the ends curled like the bodice of a ribbon. —India Espy-Jones, Essence, 16 May 2025

The bodice of the long-sleeve jacket with a plunging neckline featured encrusted jeweled elements throughout. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 9 May 2025

The bodice of the dress was black, and the rest had sequined details. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Rita Wilson shined on the red carpet in a silver gown. —Janelle Ash, FOXNews.com, 8 May 2025

Its square neckline, ruched bodice, and ruffle detailing up the ante on a typical sundress. —Clara McMahon, People.com, 8 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

alteration of bodies, plural of body entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1567, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing bodice

• bodice ripper

Rhymes for bodice

• addis
• goddess

Kids Definition

bodice

noun

bod·​ice ˈbäd-əs 

: the upper part of a dress