Definition of "bodice" []

• The fitted part of a dress that extends from the waist to the shoulder. (noun)
• A woman's laced outer garment, worn like a vest over a blouse. (noun)
• Obsolete A corset. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "The term bodice ripper is used only once and buried within the longer piece."
• "The close fitting bodice is of silver tissue and the long transparent sleeves of tulle are bound loosely to the arm by twists of frosted silver ruching."
• "Abillowy frock of mauve and pink tulle, with a tiny jewelled bodice, is completedby a tinted wig in the same primula shade, while glittering bracelets, caught withwisps of tulle, show up the fairylike wrists manipulating a great fan of snow-whiteplumes."