waistline

noun

waist·​line ˈwāst-ˌlīn How to pronounce waistline (audio)
1
a
: an arbitrary line encircling the narrowest part of the waist
b
: the part of a garment that covers the waistline or may be above or below it as fashion dictates
2
: body circumference at the waist

Examples of waistline in a Sentence

The diet claims it will reduce your waistline in just four weeks. The dress has a small waistline and a full skirt.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The bust and sleeves of the dress were covered in sequins and cut off into an empire waistline that sat just beneath her chest. Starr Bowenbank, PEOPLE, 4 Sep. 2025 The dress also featured bold colorblocking, with a white collar and front placket that ran down the dress to the waistline. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2025 This pair from Universal Thread has a classic button and zipper front, as well as front and back pockets, and a high waistline. Ali Faccenda, People.com, 2 Sep. 2025 The strapless, floor-length gown had draping in all the right places, with a cascading train and a asymmetric tiered waistline that was punctuated with bejeweled ruby buttons. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 29 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for waistline

Word History

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of waistline was in 1857

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Waistline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/waistline. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

waistline

noun
waist·​line ˈwāst-ˌlīn How to pronounce waistline (audio)
1
b
: body circumference at the waist
2
: the part of a garment surrounding the waist

Medical Definition

waistline

noun
waist·​line ˈwāst-ˌlīn How to pronounce waistline (audio)
: body circumference at the waist

More from Merriam-Webster on waistline

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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