Bustiers

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A fitted, often strapless garment designed to shape and support the torso while enhancing the waistline
2. A type of women's clothing that typically features a structured bodice and may be worn as outerwear or lingerie
3. A stylish piece of attire that combines elements of lingerie and fashion, often intended to accentuate curves and provide a smooth silhouette

Etymology: "Bustiers" is the plural of "bustier," a French word meaning "bodice," which is itself formed from "buste," the French for "bust" or "chest." The "-ier" ending in French is a common suffix for garments and containers, so the word is essentially "a thing for the bust." The item took its name from French fashion and entered English in the 20th century, once it became a fixed category of women's clothing. The plural simply follows the English convention of adding "-s" to the singular noun.

Synonyms: corsets, underclothes, lingerie, garments, shapewear