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 Victorian-style bodice of the royal’s gown was also padded at the hips and narrowed at the waist, a signature design element of McQueen. —Nicole Briese, PEOPLE, 29 Apr. 2026

With a smocked bodice and a flowy skirt that feels perfect for spring, this maxi sundress works for many body types. —Becca Blond, Travel + Leisure, 26 Apr. 2026

There’s a lot of royalist television out there, and much of it is either pretty mid or revels in bodice-ripping trashiness. —David Faris, TheWeek, 24 Apr. 2026

This style is fitted through the bodice before falling into a full, flowy skirt, creating a flattering, easy-to-wear silhouette. —Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 20 Apr. 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