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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.
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Examples of bodice in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Grace Karin Summer Floral Boho Dress Just like Kaling’s pick, this floral dress features a form-fitting bodice that then opens up into a flowy ankle-length skirt.
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Alexandra Schonfeld, People.com, 9 July 2025
The structure of the corset bodice on this dress really elevates the outfit, and fabric draping along the waist and hips creates a dramatic, sultry effect.
—Abby Morgan Lebet, Glamour, 2 July 2025
Fitted through the bodice with a flattering flare at the hips, it’s made from soft, drapey viscose that reviewers say feels like pajamas—but looks effortlessly polished.
—Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 1 July 2025
The dress’ bodice was fitted snugly around her torso, while the skirt flared out from the waist, creating an hourglass shape.
—Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 1 July 2025
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Alexandra Schonfeld, People.com, 9 July 2025
The structure of the corset bodice on this dress really elevates the outfit, and fabric draping along the waist and hips creates a dramatic, sultry effect.
—Abby Morgan Lebet, Glamour, 2 July 2025
Fitted through the bodice with a flattering flare at the hips, it’s made from soft, drapey viscose that reviewers say feels like pajamas—but looks effortlessly polished.
—Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 1 July 2025
The dress’ bodice was fitted snugly around her torso, while the skirt flared out from the waist, creating an hourglass shape.
—Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 1 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for bodice
Cite this Entry
“Bodice.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bodice. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
bodice
noun
bod·ice
ˈbäd-əs 
: the upper part of a dress
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