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Definition of bodice

bodice

/ˈbɑː.dɪs/
bod · ice

Plural:bodices
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bodice Lexical Profile

bodice Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The close-fitting upper part of a woman's dress, extending from the neck or shoulders down to the waist, typically distinct from the skirt and sleeves.

Example

"The wedding gown featured an intricately beaded bodice that cascaded into a wide tulle skirt."


2

A traditional woman's laced outer garment, resembling a vest, worn tightly over a blouse or dress.

Example

"For her role in the folk dance, she wore a peasant blouse underneath a dark velvet bodice."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for bodice

Word Origin & Etymology

Late 16th century: originally a phonetic spelling of 'bodies' (plural of 'body'), retaining the older unvoiced pronunciation of the plural suffix as /s/ rather than /z/. It originally referred to a corset or a garment covering the upper body.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bodice. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 18, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bodice
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