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 dress was crafted with contrasting fabrics, pairing a firmer, structured bodice with a plunging neckline and buttons running down the front placket with a softer skirt. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 7 Oct. 2026

Her body-skimming black gown with its waistcoat bodice from Patrick McDowell’s fall 2026 collection and Bulgari diamonds added that glamorous edge. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 7 Oct. 2026

Her strapless Saint Laurent dress—from the Spring 2018 collection—had a sculptural bodice studded with silver rivets and an asymmetrical hem. — Alfredo Toriello, Vanity Fair, 6 Oct. 2026

Meanwhile, Lou celebrated her fashion week milestone in a light pink acid wash denim minidress, which featured a structured peplum bodice embellished with buttons running down the front. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 3 Oct. 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