bustline

noun

bust·​line ˈbəs(t)-ˌlīn How to pronounce bustline (audio)
1
: an arbitrary line encircling the fullest part of the bust
2
: body circumference at the bust

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web The Manydress Summer Dress puts an elegant and flirty spin on the classic T-shirt dress with its v-neck front, lightweight, silk-like fabric, fluttery short sleeves, flowy silhouette, and ruffled details at the bustline (which gives the loose-fitting dress more structure) and hem for added texture. Emily Belfiore, Travel + Leisure, 5 May 2022 Bieber’s first Saint Laurent gown of choice was an ab-baring cutout silhouette that featured a twisted strapless bustline, proving that showing off a little skin is seasonless. Laura Jackson, Vogue, 26 Oct. 2022 Bra reduces the bustline up to one inch, so your clothes fit even better, regardless of your bra size. Diana Tsui, ELLE, 31 Jan. 2023 Most importantly, this bra also shapes the bustline while contouring to the body for a fit that can’t be beat. Kristina Rutkowski, Harper's BAZAAR, 3 Jan. 2023 For her top, Kylie went with a ribbed, scoop-neck crop top that ends right under her bustline. Abby Dupes, Seventeen, 25 Oct. 2022 With the back of the dress unzipped, Reed lowered what should have been its bustline to the level of his waist. Piczo, The New Yorker, 20 Sep. 2021 This suit, which comes in three colors to flatter a variety of skin tones, features flattering lines, a soft cup bra insert for support, and a ruffled bustline that adds a flirty touch to a classic silhouette. Alexandra Cavallo, USA TODAY, 1 June 2020 To add size to your bustline without pinup cleavage, look for tops that have something extra going on. Glamour, 11 Apr. 2019 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'bustline.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of bustline was in 1885

Dictionary Entries Near bustline

Cite this Entry

“Bustline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bustline. Accessed 9 Jun. 2023.

Kids Definition

bustline

noun
bust·​line ˈbəst-ˌlīn How to pronounce bustline (audio)
: a line around a woman's body at the bust
also : the length of this line
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