bustier

Definition

A tight-fitting women's top, often strapless, which covers the bust and sometimes extends over the belly, worn either as an undergarment or as outerwear.

Etymology

Borrowed from French bustier, from buste + -ier.

Example Sentences

• "The clothes were equally frothy: teacup silk skirts, a bubbly wool coat in Bazooka pink, satin bustiers with huge fan pleats across the front, metallic peplum jackets and flamboyantly patterned tights."
• "Next came the narrow silk straps of her bustier. She pushed the satin fabric down, toward her waist, exposing her breasts."