midriff

[ mid-rif ]

noun

1. diaphragm ( def 1 ).
2. the middle part of the body, between the chest and the waist.
3. the part of a dress or bodice, usually close-fitting, that covers this part of the body.
4. a garment that exposes this part of the body.

adjective

1. noting or pertaining to the middle part of the human body, the part of a garment that covers it, or a garment that exposes it.

midriff

/ ˈmɪdrɪf /

noun

1. 1. the middle part of the human body, esp between waist and bust
   2. ( as modifier )

      midriff bulge

2. anatomy another name for the diaphragm
3. the part of a woman's garment covering the midriff
4. a woman's garment which exposes the midriff

Word History and Origins

Origin of midriff¹

before 1000; Middle English mydryf, Old English midhrif, equivalent to mid ( d ) mid ¹ + hrif belly

Word History and Origins

Origin of midriff¹

Old English midhrif, from mid ¹+ hrif belly

Example Sentences

Daily Mail in July published photos of the “Wolf of Wall Street” and “Bombshell” actor wearing a midriff top that exposed her baby bump as she and Ackerley boarded a boat in Lake Como, Italy.

From Los Angeles Times

I wouldn’t say I look like those lithe young women who surround me there — most are so young that I could be their mother — but a taut core has developed beneath my midriff bulge.

From Los Angeles Times

In another she wears a mini-dress with clear vinyl stripes that expose bits of her midriff and thigh.

From Los Angeles Times

“Maybe he doesn't carry as much protection around the midriff than someone like Tyson Fury, but he takes a body shot like everyone else.”

From BBC

Best pop nominee Charli XCX turned up with a hard resin bustier that she had to clutch to her midriff all night, in case she did a Janet Jackson and flashed the audience.

From BBC

Related Words

• belly
• gut
• midsection
• tummy