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 semi-sheer ensemble featured a high neckline, a structured corset bodice, and a wide fishtail skirt. — Juliana Ukiomogbe, InStyle, 17 July 2026

The athlete’s look included floral appliqués at the shoulder and waist, accentuating a cutout on the bodice. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 17 July 2026

The smocked bodice offers a casual, beachy look, with adjustable straps that ensure a perfect fit. — Genevieve Cepeda, Travel + Leisure, 14 July 2026

The design featured a voluminous high-low skirt that was of a different fabric than the scoop-neck velvet bodice. — Michelle Lee, PEOPLE, 4 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