Bodice: meaning, definitions and examples

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bodice

[ˈbɒdɪs ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

clothing

A close-fitting, often laced, waist-length garment for women, covering the chest and waist.

Synonyms

bodysuit, bustier, corset.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
bodice	Best used when referring to the upper part of a dress or an outfit, commonly associated with historical clothing or formal wear. The gown had a beautifully embroidered bodice that glistened in the light. She chose a dress with a corset-style bodice for the ball.
corset	Refers to a tightly fitted garment worn to shape and support the torso, often associated with historical clothing or as a part of lingerie. Can have negative connotations due to its historical use in constricting women's bodies. The actress wore a corset to achieve a historically accurate look for her role. Corsets can create a dramatic silhouette, but they can be uncomfortable if worn for too long.
bustier	Used for a type of tight-fitting top that usually enhances the bust and may or may not have straps, often worn as lingerie or sometimes as evening wear. For the masquerade party, she picked a lace bustier to pair with her skirt. The store had a collection of elegant bustiers perfect for a night out.
bodysuit	Typically used to describe a one-piece, form-fitting garment that covers the torso and sometimes the legs or arms. It's often worn as casual or sportwear, and also in fashion contexts. She wore a sleek black bodysuit to her yoga class. The fashion show featured colorful bodysuits paired with stylish jackets.

Examples of usage

She wore a beautiful bodice with intricate lace details.
The dress had a tight bodice that accentuated her figure.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Derived from the Old French word 'bodies' meaning 'upper body'.
The term has evolved over centuries, becoming more associated with women’s fashion in the modern era.
Historically, it referred to garments for both men and women until the late 17th century.

Fashion History

During the Renaissance, bodices were often stiffened with boning to create a structured silhouette.
Victorian era bodices featured high necklines and were covered with elaborate embroidery or lace.
The use of corsets became common to shape the bodice and accentuate the waist, influencing both health and fashion.

Cultural Significance

In various cultures, bodices can symbolize status and beauty, affecting expectations of women's appearance.
Modern adaptations include both traditional styles and contemporary designs in fashion, reflecting women's empowerment.
In film and theater, bodices often signify historical period, character status, or societal roles.

Art and Literature

Many painters, like Édouard Manet, depicted women in elaborate bodices to showcase beauty and fashion trends.
Classic literature often describes women’s dresses in detail, emphasizing the bodice to evoke images of character elegance.
Bodices frequently appear in fairy tales and romantic writings to represent femininity and allure.

Psychology of Fashion

The fit and design of a bodice can affect a wearer’s self-esteem and body image, making style choices deeply personal.
Research suggests that clothing can influence mood and behavior, with fitted bodices often enhancing confidence.
Fashion choices, including bodices, reflect personal identity and cultural backgrounds, merging self-expression with societal norms.

Translations

Translations of the word "bodice" in other languages:

🇵🇹 corpete

🇮🇳 अंगिया

🇩🇪 Mieder

🇮🇩 korset

🇺🇦 ліф

🇵🇱 gorset

🇯🇵 ボディス

🇫🇷 corsage

🇪🇸 corpiño

🇹🇷 korse

🇰🇷 보디스

🇸🇦 صدارة

🇨🇿 živůtek

🇸🇰 živôtik

🇨🇳 紧身胸衣

🇸🇮 životec

🇮🇸 lífstyki

🇰🇿 корсет

🇬🇪 კორსეტი

🇦🇿 korset

🇲🇽 corpiño

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,807, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21804 premeditated
21805 unavailability
21806 slowest
21807 bodice
21808 dilate
21809 clime
21810 drizzle
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