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 black strapless dress had a steeply plunging neckline and corset bodice, which included a structural beaded detail at the waist, framed by a bit of tulle. —Kathleen Walsh, Glamour, 14 Jan. 2026

However, the Halo actress’s bodice appeared to take inspiration from a Y2K-era gown, thanks to a halterneck completely dripping in crystal embellishments. —Lara Walsh, InStyle, 14 Jan. 2026

The mesh dress, which hails from the brand’s pre-fall 2026 collection, featured Oscar de la Renta’s quintessential floral embellishments, placed along the top half of the bustline and bodice and in a cascading bouquet on the skirt. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 14 Jan. 2026

Amanda Seyfried turned heads in a custom Versace strapless ivory gown with a form-fitting silhouette and a sweetheart bodice. —Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 12 Jan. 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