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

The bodice created a stark contrast to the skirt of the dress, which flowed with intentional drama and created a slight train that trailed the actress. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 2026

Reviewers all agree that the smocked bodice on this maxi dress fits beautifully. — Sarah Scott, Southern Living, 20 Sep. 2026

In the first few photos, the human rights activist could be seen wearing a breezy bright yellow sleeveless sundress, which featured a ruched crew neckline and a polarizing bubble bodice silhouette. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 19 Sep. 2026

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