waistline

American  

[weyst-lahyn] / ˈweɪstˌlaɪn /

noun

1. the circumference of the body at the waist.

   exercises to reduce the waistline.

2. the part of a garment that lies at or near the natural waistline, as the seam where the skirt and bodice of a dress are joined.

3. an imaginary line encircling the waist.

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waistline British  

/ ˈweɪstˌlaɪn /

noun

1. a line or indentation around the body at the narrowest part of the waist

2. the intersection of the bodice and the skirt of a dress, etc, or the level of this

   a low waistline

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Etymology

Origin of waistline

First recorded in 1895–1900; waist + line ¹

Example Sentences

Hamilton said her shrinking waistline is driven by an overall desire to be healthier, and while it has made dress shopping more complicated, it hasn’t taken away from the excitement of the hunt.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 25, 2026

In addition to reporting on their oral health, participants were also asked questions about their diet, weight and waist circumference – the size of their waistline.

From Salon • Apr. 15, 2024

His waistline is comfortably ensconced within his suit, and his customary red tie dangles loosely over a conspicuously absent gut.

From Slate • Apr. 3, 2024

In his 2019 memoir “Wham! George & Me,” Ridgeley recalled pre-fame Michael as “broccoli-haired … with a muffin-top waistline and a wardrobe full of questionable outfits.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 29, 2023

His waistline had grown slightly over the years; his suspenders now pulled his pants above his belt line.

From "The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates" by Wes Moore

Related Words

• midriff