stomacher

[ stuhm-uh-ker ]

noun

1. a richly ornamented garment covering the stomach and chest, worn in the 15th and 16th centuries, and later worn under a bodice by women.

stomacher

/ ˈstʌməkə /

noun

1. a decorative V-shaped panel of stiff material worn over the chest and stomach by men and women in the 16th century, later only by women

Word History and Origins

Origin of stomacher¹

A late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; stomach, -er ¹

Example Sentences

A cambric apron, gloves, a pair of purple stockings, and a stomacher!

From Project Gutenberg

Her dress was of white satin, cut low and square, with a stomacher of lace and pearls.

From Project Gutenberg

An embroidered stomacher or vest was sometimes worn over the shirt and under the doublet.

From Project Gutenberg

She wore a large ruff, a laced stomacher, wide quilted petticoats, and a pointed hat with a broad brim.

From Project Gutenberg

The very low-necked dresses were replaced by those with a formal stomacher.

From Project Gutenberg