bodice ripper UK /ˈbɒdɪs ˌɹɪpə/US /ˈbɑdɪs ˌɹɪpɚ/ noun1 •(informal) A romantic novel, usually in a historical setting, with frank depictions of sexual activity, especially one in which the female protagonist is seduced; (by extension) a film, television programme, etc., featuring such activity.My aunt would bring a stack of torrid bodice rippers with her to the beach, and would unfailingly blush if disturbed in her reading. formsbodice rippers · bodice-rippers