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bosomy

C2
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /bˈʊsəmi/

US

  • /ˈbʊzəmi/adjective

Description

"Bosomy" describes someone—most commonly a woman—with a full, ample bust. It is an older term that is not always negative but often sounds dated and can come across as objectifying today. Classic paintings and older literature may refer to voluptuous figures this way. The term is most often used to stress physical shape rather than personality, so context matters.

Historically, it was tied to older ideals of beauty, motherhood, and femininity, so you are more likely to see it in historical fiction than modern, everyday speech. A period-style description might read, "She was a robust, bosomy woman." If you want to avoid unnecessary objectification, choose a more neutral phrasing unless you are clearly discussing period language or style.

Examples

  1. 1

    Older fiction

    In the old novel, the hero is greeted by a cheerful, bosomy widow at the inn.

  2. 2

    Sexualized stereotype

    The poster showed a bosomy blonde leaning over a red sports car.

    • Caution

      bosomy blonde

      a stereotyped, sexualized image; the phrase often sounds dated or sexist

  3. 3

    Comedy criticism

    Modern reviewers said the comedy's bosomy barmaids felt more awkward than funny.

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • bosomyadjective