corset

1 of 2

noun

cor·​set ˈkȯr-sət How to pronounce corset (audio)
1
: a usually close-fitting and often laced medieval jacket
2
: a woman's close-fitting boned supporting undergarment that is often hooked and laced and that extends from above or beneath the bust or from the waist to below the hips and has garters attached

corset

2 of 2

verb

corseted; corseting; corsets

transitive verb

1
: to dress in or fit with a corset
2
: to restrict closely : control rigidly

Examples of corset in a Sentence

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.
Noun
The famous teen wore a pastel pink silk gown and a corset bodice at the top for the event, which raises funds for cancer research. Angel Saunders, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2025 Styled by Molly Dickson, the simple yet formal footwear aligned with Sweeney’s spring 2026 Stella McCartney look, a form-fitting white minidress with sheer ruched fabric wrapped around a structured corset base with boning and exaggerated hips. Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 28 Oct. 2025
Verb
The same goes for Charli XCX who, in a Danielle Frankel slip and Vivienne Westwood corset dress, made the case for uptight brides to let go of their pursuit of perfection and just let loose. Emily Mercer, Footwear News, 24 Oct. 2025 The high-neck long-sleeve bodysuit, jersey boots, corset mini dress and gloves — all in a subtle floral pattern — emulated her style evolution from casual to high-fashion. Ariana Quihuiz, PEOPLE, 21 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for corset

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English, from Anglo-French, diminutive of cors

First Known Use

Noun

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Verb

1845, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of corset was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Corset.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/corset. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

corset

1 of 2 noun
cor·​set ˈkȯr-sət How to pronounce corset (audio)
: a woman's tight stiff undergarment worn to support or give shape to waist and hips

corset

2 of 2 verb
: to dress in or fit with a corset

More from Merriam-Webster on corset

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