/bod"is/ , n.
1. a usually fitted vest or wide, lace-up girdle worn by women over a dress or blouse, esp. a cross-laced, sleeveless outer garment covering the waist and bust, common in peasant dress.
2. the part of a woman's dress covering the body between the neck or shoulders and the waist. Cf. waist (def. 4).
3. Obs. stays or a corset.
[ 1560-70; bodies, pl. of BODY ]