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.
Recent Examples on the WebThe corset bodice was covered in beading, and the sleeves featured a delicate fringe trim.—Hedy Phillips, Peoplemag, 31 May 2024 While the halterneck covered her bodice, the skirt of the gown created the illusion of flowers on a vine that reached her gold open-toe heels.—Michelle Lee, Peoplemag, 17 May 2024 Delevingne wore a hooded, backless diamond bodice, created using more than 500 carats of VRAI diamonds.—Nicole Fell, The Hollywood Reporter, 7 May 2024 This one is subtly fitted through the bodice, complete with a scoop neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a flowing, tiered skirt.—Jamie Allison Sanders, Peoplemag, 8 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for bodice
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'bodice.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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