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

In contrast to her undone hairstyle, Chopra looked ready for a day at the office in a polished white jumpsuit featuring a crisp dress shirt bodice, eyelet cutouts running down the front, and wide-legged trousers. —Lara Walsh, InStyle, 25 Feb. 2026

Rose Byrne and Bobby Cannavale BAFTA Film Awards 2026 Best Actress nominee Rose Byrne wore a buttery yellow gown with a formfitting bodice, flowing skirt and crystal embellishments on the bodice and halter straps by Miu Miu. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 23 Feb. 2026

Steamy and visually alluring, the film turns Brontë's story about revenge, obsession and social class into a bodice-ripping love affair. —Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 16 Feb. 2026

And of course, thanks to Wuthering Heights, a more romantic all-over blush makes more sense than dressing up in bodices and hoop skirts. —Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 14 Feb. 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