bodice

noun

bod·​ice ˈbä-dəs How to pronounce bodice (audio)
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.

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Examples of bodice 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.
Even better, the smocked bodice offers a comfortable, flattering fit, and the tie at the bustline allows for easy adjustments. Destinee Scott, Travel + Leisure, 24 June 2026 Witherspoon, 50, wore a pink lace dress with a corseted bodice and a sweetheart neckline, while Deacon, 22, coordinated in a black suit with a magenta tie. Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 24 June 2026 The look embodied dark punk sensibility, with a monochrome black color scheme, leathery gloves and strapless, structured bodice, among other details. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 24 June 2026 The bodice also included a giant bow at the neck. Juliana Ukiomogbe, InStyle, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for bodice

Word History

Etymology

alteration of bodies, plural of body entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1567, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of bodice was circa 1567

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Cite this Entry

“Bodice.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bodice. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

bodice

noun
bod·​ice ˈbäd-əs How to pronounce bodice (audio)
: the upper part of a dress

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