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

Made from airy organic cotton, the midi style has a smocked bodice, a breezy eyelet skirt, and discreet side pockets. — Mariana Best, PEOPLE, 25 July 2026

The jumpsuit featured a collarless, structured design, with a zipper on the bodice and quarter sleeves, while the trousers were designed with flowing, wide legs. — Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 24 July 2026

Layers of padded fabric created a rippling sand dune effect, while the structured bodice and exaggerated shoulders gave the look a futuristic edge. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 23 July 2026

The ribbed tank-style bodice balances the flowy skirt for a polished look that works with sneakers during the day or sandals and jewelry for dinner. — Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 17 July 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