description of breasts for creative writing

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Ways to Describe Chests and Breasts: A Word List for Writers

(Discover even more words in The Writer’s Body Lexicon .)

According to Thomas Fuller, the devil lies brooding in the miser’s chest. Rod Stewart said that a person has to have a burning desire in the chest to succeed. And then there’s Erma Bombeck, who quipped, “What’s with you men? Would hair stop growing on your chest if you asked directions somewhere?”

An overweight man or out-of-shape bodybuilder might have pecs that move and look like flabby breasts. A female stevedore or competitive swimmer might develop a muscular torso that appears more masculine than feminine.

In several areas of this post, I created separate headings for chests and breasts. However, you might prefer to apply words differently, sometimes for comedic effect.

When considering descriptors, pay attention to opinion adjectives and how they affect point of view.

Emotion Beats and Physical Manifestations

Before reviewing the following beats, note that he crossed his arms across his chest can be shortened to he crossed his arms .

Many readers will associate a puffed-out chest with aggression or arrogance, but they might not see a clear association with delight or determination. Ensure suitable context for vague emotion beats.

Aggression puffed-out chest

Aggrievement, distress shoulders slumped inward over chest chest, neck, and face flush and feel hot

Agitation, nervousness clutching papers against chest

Amazement holding a hand against chest

Anger thrusting chest forward, fists propped on hips

Anticipation holding a hand against chest

Anxiety tightness in the chest

Arrogance puffed-out chest

Confidence, scorn, smugness puffed-out chest light feeling in the chest

Conflict tightness in the chest

Confusion tightness in the chest

Contempt puffed-out chest

Defeat, desperation, discouragement when emotion is intense: chest pains or numbness accompanied by thumping heart

Defensiveness pressing chin against chest holding both hands over chest, shoulders hunched inward

Delight, euphoria puffed-out chest heart drumming in chest

Depression hollow sensation in chest

Desire heart fluttering in chest

Determination puffed-out chest

Disappointment tightness in chest

Dread, fear , terror chest pains clutching chest with one or both hands heavy sensation, tingling in chest closed posture, arms and fists pulled into chest

Embarrassment tightness in chest drooping posture, chest pulled inward

Envy, jealousy heartburn burbling up into chest

Excitement chest-bumping with another person or persons

Frustration, irritation tightness in chest

Gratitude placing one hand over chest (heart)

Guilt, shame tightness in chest lowering chin to chest

Happiness placing both hands over chest

Hatred tightness in chest when emotion is intense: chest pains or numbness accompanied by thumping heart

Hopefulness placing both hands over chest

Humiliation tightness and pain in chest

Insecurity holding a familiar item of comfort against the chest (stuffed animal, lucky charm, photo of a loved one, etc.)

Overwhelm sitting or sleeping in fetal position, with knees drawn close to chest

Pride puffed-out chest

Regret tightness in chest massaging shoulder or chest

Resentment tightness in chest

Sadness tightness in chest heavy sensation in chest massaging shoulder or chest

Satisfaction puffed-out chest

Sexual attraction embracing someone, with full chest-to-chest contact

Shame tightness in chest shoulders hunched forward over chest

Shock, surprise quickly clutching chest with one or both hands

Sympathy crossing hands over chest, and curling shoulders inward

If you need additional beats, consult a body language dictionary . (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Adjectives, Both Chests and Breasts

A to C abnormal, adolescent, amazing, ample, armored, athletic, bare, beautiful , blood-caked, bloodied, bloodstained, boyish, brazen, bristly, bruised, bulging, bulky, bushy, childish, chubby, clean, cold, compact

D and E damp, defined, deformed, delicate, developed, developing, diminutive, divine, effeminate, elongated, emaciated, empty, enchanting, enormous

F and G fabulous, fat, feminine, fevered, flat, flawless, fleshy, fragile, frail, frosty, frozen, full, furry, gleaming, glossy, glowing, gorgeous, grimy, grizzled

H to M hairless, hairy, hard, healthy, hideous, hirsute, hot, icy, ideal, immense, impressive, inflamed, insubstantial, iridescent, leathery, magnificent, marvelous, massive, meager, motionless

N to R naked, narrow, outstanding, painful, perfect, phenomenal, prodigious, prominent, proud, puny, raw, repugnant, resilient, rock-hard

S sexy , shaggy, shallow, shapely, shiny, shirtless, shrunken, slack, slender, slimy, slippery, smooth, sodden, sopping, sore, splendid, sticky, stunning, superb, sweaty

T to V tempting, titanic, T-shirted, unattractive, underdeveloped, unimpressive, unprotected, unremarkable, unusual, veined, velvety, voluminous

W to Y warm, well-defined, well-fleshed, well-proportioned, wet, wondrous, wrinkled, wrinkly, young, youthful

Adjectives Breasts Only

A to D akimbo, alert, alluring, ample, barren, blubbery, bold, braless, budding, buoyant, busty, buxom, chaste, chesty, conspicuous, dainty, delectable, delicate, diminutive, dry

E to L empty, enchanting, enlarged, exuberant, fake, firm, flabby, flaccid, free, generous, gigantic , girlish, heavy, high, huge, immature, jaunty, large, little, lopsided, lovely, lumpy, luscious, lush

M to R maternal, mature, miniscule, modest, monstrous, nascent, numb, oversized, padded, pendulous, perky, pert, plump, pretty, ripe, rotund

S saggy, sensitive, shriveled, small , smallish, soft, succulent, sweet, swollen

U to W unbound, unencumbered, unfettered, upright, upstanding, useless, virginal, voluptuous, well-endowed, withered

Adjectives, Chests only

A to F angular, athletic, bearish, beefy, bony, brawny, broad, buff, built, bullish, burly, cadaverous, carved, chiseled, clear, confident, congested, deep, expansive, frail

G to O gangly, gaunt, handsome, hard, haughty, hench, Herculean, hollow, hulking, lean, male, mammoth, manly, masculine, matted, meaty, mighty, musclebound, muscular, obdurate, overdeveloped

P to R powerful, puffed-out, rasping, raspy, resonant, ribbed, rickety, rigid, robust, rugged

S scrawny, sculpted, serviceable, sinewy, skeletal, skinny, sleek, slick, solid, sonorous, strapping, streamlined, strong, stubbly, sturdy, sunken

T to W taut, thick, thin, tight, tough, unyielding, valiant, vast, weak, well-muscled, wheezy, wide

Similes and Metaphors

Rather than copy any of the following, leverage them as ideas for your own phrasing.

• breasts like twin doorknobs
• breasts like twin watermelons
• breasts more wrinkled than last year’s apple crop
• breasts that bounce like water balloons
• chest as blocky as a chest of drawers
• chest flatter than a smushed bug
• chest hairier than a barber’s floor
• desire that burns like a wildfire in one’s chest
• fear cinching one’s chest tighter than any corset ever could
• grief — an anvil crushing one’s chest
• heart beating in one’s chest like a butterfly trapped in a net
• shock piercing one’s chest like a lightning bolt

upper body like a bulldog’s chest

Torsos that spend hours bared in the sun will mirror the color and tone of a character’s neck and face .

If a character keeps the upper body covered most of the time, it will be lighter in color — humor fodder for Canadian or Icelandic protagonists, perhaps?

B to W bronzed, coppery, creamy, crimson, dark, fair, freckled, lily-white [cliché], milky, orange, pale, pallid, patchy, pink, rosy, sallow, salt-and-pepper [cliché], snow-white [cliché], snowy, speckled, swarthy, tanned, tawny, white-haired

See also the Color/Tone section of 300+ Words to Describe Skin .

Exposure to many substances will cause a person’s chest to retain the aroma, often affecting first impressions.

If a woman, who has referred to herself as a “single virgin” in a matchmaking app, arrives with the smells of baby powder and spit-up emanating from her cleavage, her prospective date might suspect she isn’t telling the truth. A CEO whose chest smells like wet dog might trigger a sneezing fit and subsequent avoidance by a prospective investor.

A person’s chest or breasts might smell like, reek of, or be redolent with the scent of:

A to D almonds, antiseptic, baby oil, baby powder, bacon bits, a bakery, barfed-up booze, bat guano, the beach, body wash, burnt flesh, C4, camphor oil, cat food, chocolate milk, coffee grounds, cookie dough, depilatory, diaper cream, dirty socks, dog breath

E to R egg salad, a forest glen, formaldehyde, goose grease, Grandma’s kitchen, gunpowder, halitosis, honey, kerosene, K-Y Jelly, lamp oil, lemon frosting, maple syrup, musty beard, old books, a one-night stand, orange peels, peppermint tea, pilfered doughnuts, pipe tobacco, rancid coconut oil, road kill, rotten cheese

S to W salad dressing, sandalwood, sawdust, shampoo, a skunk, soap, a sour dishrag, sour milk, a spice rack, spit-up, stinky towels, strawberries, sunblock, sweat, talcum powder, tar, tent canvas, too much cologne, vanilla, wet dog

Many shapes in this short list can refer to both chests and breasts.

A to W asymmetrical, barrel-chested, bell-shaped, blocky, concave, conical, convex, domed, flat, misshapen, pear-shaped, pigeon-chested, pointed, pointy, round(ed), shapeless, teardrop, triangular, wedge-shaped, well-rounded

Verbs and Phrasal Verbs (1): Transitive

These verbs take direct objects. A character’s chest might burn with desire, fill with air, or strain against shackles.

A to S ache (from, with), brush (against), burn with, engorge with, fill with, heave (against, into), peek out of, press against, resemble, rub (against), scrape against, slam (into), strain against, support

Verbs and Phrasal Verbs (2): Intransitive

The verbs in this section don’t require an object. A chest might balloon, congest, or expand. Period.

A to G ache, appear, balloon, bead with, bleed, bounce, bulge, burn, clog (up), collapse, congest, constrict, dangle, deflate, distend, drip, expand, freeze, gleam, glisten, glitter, glow

H to T hang, hurt, itch, jut, leak, perspire, prickle, protrude, rattle, relax, ripple, sag, shine, shrink, sink, spasm, strain, sweat, tickle, tighten

Verbs and Phrasal Verbs (3): Verbs that Take Chest/Breast or Chests/Breasts as an Object

Serafina bandaged her chest with strips torn from her petticoat.

Brad thumped his chest . “Nobody tells me what to do.”

An arrow pierced the knight’s chest .

A to H adorn (with), bandage (with), bare, batter, beat at (with), beat on (with), blanket (in, with), claw at, clutch (with), compress, cover (with), crush (with), cut (with), decorate (with), display, draw on (with), expand, expose, feel (with), flash, hold, hug

I to S inflate, lacerate (on, with), massage (with), paint (with), palpate, pierce (with), poke (with), press (against), puff (out, up), punch (with), push (with), shake, shave (with), slash (with), slather (with), slice (with), squeeze, stab (with), strike (with), swath (in, with)

T to W thrust out, thump (with), touch (with), uncover, unveil, wax (with), wound (on, with)

Nouns, Both Chests and Breasts

N to T nipples, pecs, pectorals, thorax

Refer to the next two sections as well for suitable nouns.

Nouns, Chests Only

You might (usually in poetry or older works) find breast used as a replacement for chest , as in: He beat upon his breast .

Compared to the plethora of slang and vulgar terms coined by authors for breast(s) , I discovered a dearth of similar words for chest . Fodder for an opinion editorial, perhaps?

B to T breast, Chewbacca sweater, gorilla torso, lung carpet, man boobs, manpelt, manssier-stuffer, muscleini, rib cage, thorax, torso, trunk

Find more words by googling slang terms for chest .

Nouns, Breasts Only

If your character is an uncouth jerk, you might be able to get away with using some of the rude words in this section in dialogue. Otherwise, you’ll invite the ire of readers. As Shakespeare’s Falstaff said, “Discretion is the better part of valor.”

If you need more offensive words, google derogatory terms for breasts or offensive names for breasts .

B to F bazookas, boobs, bosom, bra stuffers, breast-o-raunts, bust, buzzums, casabas, chesticles, chi-chis, cleavage, Daddy’s playground, double-Ds, flotation devices

G to X the girls, healthy lungs, hooters, jugs, knockers, mammary glands, mammas, mammillae, melons, milk tanks, mosquito bites, num-nums, ta-tas, teats, tits, twins, wardrobe malfunctions, XL lungs

Props augment a story or twist it in new directions. Try some of these to add humor, pathos, or intrigue.

A to I angina, beard that reaches to or covers the chest, broken rib, cancer, chest cold, COPD, cough, CPR, crumbs, emphysema, extra nipple, glitter, honey, huge nipples, inflammation

L to W laceration, mastectomy, mastitis, measuring tape, missing nipple, muscle shirt, nipple piercing, pneumonia, scabs, scar, sequins, tattoos, wart

Clichés and Idioms

Chest … chest … chest … breast … breast … breast …

Excessive repetition? Maybe you’ve incorporated too many clichés and idioms. Try these replacements.

• close to one’s chest: confidential, hush-hush, secret
• strong enough to put hair on one’s chest: powerful, pungent
• to bare one’s breast: admit/show vulnerability
• to beat (on, upon) one’s chest/breast: bewail, lament, mourn, regret
• to get something off one’s chest: admit, confess, reveal
• to make a clean breast of it: admit, confess, reveal
• to take a spear in the chest: admit, concede, confess
• to thump one’s chest: bluster, boast, brag, swagger

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6 thoughts on “ Ways to Describe Chests and Breasts: A Word List for Writers ”

Extremely helpful for me

Thanks, Max.

Good luck with your writing!

Thank you so much for all the diversity. Your awesome for sharing.

Thanks for stopping by, Jodene. I’m glad you found the post helpful.

Stay safe and wonderfully writerly.

I was hoping to find a way to describe the areola, the color of it and the nipple.

Thanks for stopping by, Kim.

Areolas would vary in color depending on race, exposure to sun, excitement, and other factors. Try this post for shades of brown and pink that might suit your WIP:

https://kathysteinemann.com/Musings/colors/

Comments are closed.

• Conjunctions
• Prepositions

Breast Adjectives: Describing Words with Examples

When it comes to describing the beauty and allure of the female form, one area that often captivates our attention is the breasts. These exquisite features possess an undeniable charm, and finding the right words to describe them can enhance our appreciation of their unique qualities. In this article, I’ll be exploring a range of adjectives that can be used to eloquently depict the allure and shape of breasts. From delicate curves to mesmerizing symmetry, we’ll delve into a collection of descriptive words that will help you paint a vivid picture in your mind. So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect adjectives to celebrate the beauty of breasts.

Whether you’re a writer seeking to add depth to your characters or simply someone who appreciates the aesthetics of the female form, having a rich vocabulary of adjectives at your disposal can make all the difference. From the softness of “supple” to the alluring appeal of “voluptuous,” we’ll explore a wide range of descriptive words that capture the essence of breasts. Along the way, I’ll provide examples to showcase how these adjectives can be used effectively to create vivid imagery. So, get ready to expand your vocabulary and bring your descriptions to life as we embark on this journey through the world of adjectives for breasts.

Table of Contents

How to Describe breasts? – Different Scenarios

When it comes to describing breasts, it’s important to choose the right adjectives to evoke the desired imagery. Different scenarios call for different types of descriptions. Whether you’re writing a novel, poem, or simply want to appreciate the aesthetics of the female form, here are some examples of how to describe breasts in various situations:

1. Sensual and Romantic

When depicting a sensual or romantic scene, it’s crucial to use adjectives that elicit passion and desire. Consider words like:

For example: Her curvaceous breasts invited his touch, their supple flesh enticing him closer.

2. Playful and Whimsical

In a lighthearted or playful context, you can opt for adjectives that convey a sense of whimsy or innocence. Some words that fit well include:

For example: Her perky breasts danced as she skipped through the meadow, their bouncy nature adding to her carefree spirit.

3. Strong and Empowering

If you want to highlight the strength and empowerment associated with breasts, choose adjectives that convey confidence and resilience. Consider words like:

For example: Her powerful breasts showcased her strength, each muscle defined and commanding attention.

4. Natural and Organic

To celebrate the natural beauty of breasts, select adjectives that emphasize their organic form and appearance. Some suitable words include:

For example: Her soft breasts, like blossoming flowers, were a testament to the beauty of nature.

Remember, when using these adjectives, it’s important to do so tastefully and respectfully. The ultimate goal is to appreciate the unique qualities of the female form and enhance the imagery in your writing. So, choose your words wisely and let them bring your descriptions to life.

Describing Words for breasts in English

When it comes to describing breasts, there are several adjectives that can be used to paint a vivid picture. These descriptive words can evoke different emotions, highlight different qualities, and create a specific tone in your writing. Let’s explore some of the adjectives that can be used to describe breasts and their examples:

1. Sensual and Romantic Adjectives:

Example: “Her alluring breasts caught my attention, drawing me in like a magnet.”

2. Playful and Whimsical Adjectives:

Example: “Her perky breasts added a touch of playfulness to her charismatic personality.”

3. Strong and Empowering Adjectives:

Example: “She stood tall, her powerful breasts serving as a symbol of her strength and resilience.”

4. Natural and Organic Adjectives:

Example: “Her supple breasts were like delicate flowers, a testament to the beauty of nature.”

Remember, when using these adjectives, it is important to do so tastefully and respectfully. Appreciating the beauty of the human body should always be done in a respectful and consensual manner.

Adjectives for breasts

In this section, I’ll discuss various adjectives that can be used to describe breasts. It’s important to remember that when appreciating the beauty of the human body, these adjectives should be used tastefully and respectfully. Let’s take a look at some positive and negative adjectives for breasts, along with example sentences illustrating their usage.

Positive Adjectives for Breasts with Example Sentences

• Exquisite – Her exquisite breasts were like works of art.
• Glorious – The sight of her glorious breasts took my breath away.
• Voluptuous – She had a voluptuous figure with perfectly proportioned breasts.
• Alluring – Her alluring breasts captivated everyone in the room.
• Delicate – The delicate curve of her breasts was mesmerizing.
• Elegant – Her elegant breasts showcased her natural beauty.
• Sensuous – The sensuous feel of her breasts against my skin was electric.
• Radiant – Her radiant breasts exuded confidence and grace.
• Tantalizing – His eyes were drawn to the tantalizing sight of her breasts.
• Teasing – She wore a low-cut top, teasing everyone with a glimpse of her breasts.
• Luscious – Her luscious breasts were a sight to behold.
• Enchanting – The enchanting shape of her breasts left me speechless.
• Sagging – Her sagging breasts showed signs of aging.
• Asymmetric – One breast was larger than the other, making it asymmetric.
• Flabby – Her flabby breasts lacked firmness and definition.
• Uneven – The uneven size of her breasts made her self-conscious.
• Disproportionate – Her disproportionately large breasts drew unwanted attention.

Now that we have explored a range of adjectives to describe breasts, it’s important to use them respectfully and tastefully. Whether positive or negative, these adjectives should be used with sensitivity, understanding, and appreciation for the beauty of the human body.

Synonyms and Antonyms with Example Sentences

Synonyms for breasts.

When it comes to describing breasts, there are several synonyms that can be used to capture their beauty. Here are some examples:

Antonyms for Breasts

While we appreciate the beauty of breasts, it’s important to acknowledge that not everyone’s body is the same. Here are some antonyms that describe aspects that may be different:

As we appreciate the beauty of the human body, let’s remember to use these adjectives tastefully and respectfully. Each person is unique, and it’s important to celebrate and respect our differences.

Describing breasts can be a delicate subject, but it’s important to appreciate the beauty of the human body tastefully and respectfully. Throughout this article, we’ve explored a range of adjectives that can be used to describe breasts, both positively and negatively.

When it comes to positive adjectives, words like beautiful, alluring, and stunning capture the captivating nature of breasts. Other adjectives such as lovely, exquisite, and radiant highlight their unique appeal. And let’s not forget about words like gorgeous, tempting, and voluptuous, which emphasize their sensual qualities.

On the other hand, we’ve also discussed negative adjectives that should be used with caution. Terms like sagging, asymmetric, and flabby may describe certain physical characteristics, but it’s important to remember that everyone’s body is unique and should be celebrated.

The variety of adjectives available to describe breasts allows us to appreciate their beauty in a respectful and tasteful manner. So, whether you’re admiring their allure or celebrating their uniqueness, remember to choose your words wisely and embrace the beauty of the human form.

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20,101 quotes, descriptions and writing prompts, 4,968 themes

breasts - quotes and descriptions to inspire creative writing

• breast feeding
• breast size
• let down reflex
• public breast feeding

There is nothing more bewitching than Lucy's naked form. In clothing no heads turn her way to admire. They don't know what they're missing and I'm glad. The world can keep its supermodels, anorexic looking as they are. Lucy is soft and her breasts so warm, so responsive to the touch. As soon as my hand is upon them her kisses change, deeper, more sensual. I can't imagine anyone with implants can respond like that. Everything about her is natural and I love it. I love her too, everything that she is. I don't need eye candy to make the guys jealous, I need a soulmate to keep me warm at night and that she will always be.

There is something so disarming about seeing Miranda naked. There's a vulnerability in her eyes I can't resist. My eyes travel from her face to her collar bone, delicate in the semi-darkness, then to her breasts. Without lingerie they sit lower, more natural, less close together, each so perfect and moulded to her form. I don't linger too long, just enough for her to see how beautiful she is to me. It's her eyes I want to see and my hands can tell me the rest.

Nadia had the breasts of a french actress rather than anything North American television has to offer. The tops caught the moonlight, the underneath a soft shadow. She walked without shame or false modesty, knowing she was beautiful to the eye, sleek with an athletic frame.

The only part of Colette the men noticed were her breasts. Even in a sports bra they appeared enhanced. By the end of the day her back ached and the straps of her bra had dug deeply into her shoulders. The small chested women always glanced her way in envy but if she could swap she'd do it in a heartbeat.

Ava ran her hands down her front, over her body that changed by the day. No longer was she flat, yet she wasn't fully developed either. She turned sideways to the mirror to see her profile, to see how her new breasts protruded from her rib cage. She raised her hand to push from below, to push them upward into a larger mound of soft fat.

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20+ Best Words to Describe Breasts, Adjectives for Breasts

Breasts, often referred to as the rounded, soft organs on the chest, hold immense significance for various reasons. They are an integral part of the female anatomy and play a crucial role in breastfeeding and nurturing infants. Throughout history, breasts have been celebrated, objectified, and described using an array of words that encompass their diverse attributes. In this blog post, we delve into the vocabulary used to describe breasts, exploring the rich tapestry of language that surrounds these cherished and complex symbols of femininity.

Adjectives for Breasts

Here are the 20 Most Popular adjectives for breasts:

• Symmetrical
• Tantalizing

Adjectives for “breast cancer”:

• Devastating
• Life-altering
• Unpredictable
• Challenging

Words to Describe Breasts with Meanings

• Alluring : Attractively enticing or captivating.
• Ample : Abundant and plentiful in size.
• Attractive : Appealing and visually pleasing.
• Beautiful : Exquisitely pleasing and aesthetically delightful.
• Bountiful : Generously ample and plentiful.
• Curvaceous : Having shapely and elegant curves.
• Firm : Solid and well-toned in texture.
• Full : Rounded and complete in form.
• Graceful : Elegantly stylish and poised.
• Luscious : Richly appealing and deliciously tempting.
• Natural : Inherent and not artificial or enhanced.
• Pert : Perky and lively in appearance.
• Sensuous : Embodying physical and sensual appeal.
• Shapely : Well-formed and attractively contoured.
• Supple : Soft, flexible, and pliant.
• Symmetrical : Balanced and proportionate in shape.
• Voluptuous : Exuding sensual fullness and attractiveness.
• Youthful : Displaying the qualities of youthful vitality.
• Radiant : Glowing and emitting a positive aura.
• Tantalizing : Tempting and teasingly alluring.

Example Sentences for Breasts Adjectives

• She had an alluring smile that captivated everyone.
• The buffet offered ample choices for dessert lovers.
• The painting showcased an attractive blend of colors.
• The garden displayed beautiful flowers in full bloom.
• The harvest was bountiful , providing enough food for all.
• The actress flaunted her curvaceous figure on the red carpet.
• He exercised regularly to maintain a firm physique.
• The dress accentuated her full and elegant silhouette.
• The ballerina moved with graceful precision on stage.
• The chef served a luscious chocolate cake for dessert.
• She preferred using natural skincare products with no chemicals.
• The pert little puppy wagged its tail excitedly.
• The perfume had a sensuous and alluring scent.
• The sculpture highlighted the woman’s shapely form.
• The yoga instructor demonstrated various supple poses.
• The architecture featured symmetrical designs on both sides.
• Her confidence and charm made her voluptuous figure even more attractive.
• Despite her age, she maintained a youthful appearance.
• Her radiant smile brightened up the room.
• The mystery novel had a tantalizing plot that kept readers engaged.

Explore More Words:

Words to Describe Chicken

Words to Describe Caregivers

Words to Describe Empowerment

How to describe breasts in writing?

Describing breasts in writing involves using adjectives like “shapely,” “voluptuous,” “firm,” and “alluring” to paint a vivid and tasteful picture.

What is the term for large breasts?

The term for large breasts is “bust” or “busty.”

What is the word for hanging breasts?

The word for hanging breasts is “ptosis” or “sagging.”

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zaphod Member

Ways to describe female body shape.

Discussion in ' Character Development ' started by zaphod , Jun 17, 2009 .

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); I've run into a huge problem I never foresaw when creating the images of my characters in my head. How do you casually describe a typical looking young female character who is say, roughly 5'7" and 160 lbs? I basically chose this for realism and to imply things about the characters' personality. I really want to describe "the girl at work" who is not supposed to be hot but perhaps attractive in some other way. my issue seems to be arising from the double standards and amount of sensitivity that one, especially a dude, goes about with using adjectives here. My perception tells me "average" on the hyper-critical scale of female body image means a step below barbie doll, and beyond that one runs into gross or pervy sounding adjectives. Ughh...this sucks. As I said I'm a guy too, don't know what that would mean either. Can someone help me?  

DarkMaiden273 New Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); When he walked into the office he heard the familair laughter of Anita, a twenty-something co-worker, who he had never really thought much about. Glancing over he took in her plain jeans and t-shirt, noting she had a clean, heart-shaped face with soft green eyes, slim and not too tall. She was cute, he thought, in a girl-next-door type of way. Her brown hair was twisted up into a pony-tail now. He turned his attention back to his desk... i don't know. i hope this helps. this is something that i just came up with.  

CDRW Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); Or you could wax poetic (and mean) with something like: She was invisible. She was more than invisible. When something is invisible you at least notice that there is an empty space there. If she was ugly I would have noticed her. If she was beautiful I would have noticed her. Tall or short, heavy or skinny, if there was anything distinguishabe about her I would have noticed her. The problem was that she was not in the least bit noticable. She was a heaping mound of mediocrity who's very presence would have screamed "don't notice me," except that screaming draws attention.  

Cogito Former Mod, Retired Supporter Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); Who is doing the describing? Is the narration from a character's point of view? If so, and it probably is, you need to see her through the eyes of your character, and speak through his voice. So maybe she's sorta hot and sorta not, but something about her fascinates him. He isn't quite sure what it is about her, but he finds himself unable to stop looking. Don't describe what he wouldn't notice. Most guys wouldn't give a crap about what kind of purse she's carrying, or whether her lip gloss is cerise or coral. Hell, it may be days before he could even tell you what color eyes she has. If you're having trouble putting what he sees into words, do some field work. Hang out where guys are watching girls, and listen to them. Keep in mind that a group of all guys will probably be showing off to their buddies, so the talk is probably not going to be as genuine as when a guy is speaking to his best friend about someone he thinks he likes but is scared to mess up things by saying the wrong thing.  

architectus Banned

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); "heart-shaped face" I hope that description dies. I don't know why authors ever started using it. Reading about a woman with a heart face is about as appealing as a woman with an egg head. As far as describing body type, try to think of how he would describe it.  

SilverWolf0101 Active Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); It all depends really, but the best way I've come up with is looking at pictures and thinking about how I would describe that person. It also depends on what a guy would look at first on a woman.  

seta New Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); I don't like it when authors try to go into great depth describing someone's physical attributes. Rather, I like a few guiding points from the author and then let my imagination do the rest of the work. "The soldier who appeared in front of me was large and broad-shouldered. His brawny arms and dark skin stood in direct contrast to the warm and friendly smile on his face. I was gad to see my old friend." I know it's simple and not very poetic, but it illustrates my point that you just crafted an image of the person I was talking about in your head.  

Wreybies Thrice Retired Supporter Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); Although not really a Ray Bradbury fan, in his The Martian Chronicles , he does the most poetic description of two men, one human, one Martian, separated in time and space, but both thinking about the same thing, beautiful women with bodies curved like the lines of boats.  

Lil Miss Me New Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); The Best Way To Describe A Character... Is not to do it. Nobody wants to sit and read long winded descriptions about characters. Throw in a line here or there. "This that and the other thing" she said while tucking a loose strand of her jet black hair behind her ear. Subtle stuff like that that will eventually creat a full picture. That's my advice.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); "This that and the other thing" she said while tucking a loose strand of her jet black hair behind her ear. Click to expand...

ManhattanMss New Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); As far as describing body type, try to think of how he would describe it. Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); Lil Miss Me said: ↑ Is not to do it. Nobody wants to sit and read long winded descriptions about characters. Throw in a line here or there. "This that and the other thing" she said while tucking a loose strand of her jet black hair behind her ear. Subtle stuff like that that will eventually creat a full picture. That's my advice. Click to expand...

Smithy New Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); I justify a description of a female character with the fact that the POV character is certain he recognises her from somewhere and so is taking her all in, trying to work out where he knows her from. It includes the phrase "china-doll pretty" with regards to her face, does everyone understand what that means or is it too far out and I should think of something else?  

JavaMan New Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); Smithy said: ↑ It includes the phrase "china-doll pretty" with regards to her face, does everyone understand what that means or is it too far out and I should think of something else? Click to expand...

PS Foster Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); In one of my stories I described my female MC as looking like Shania Twain with red hair. Most people know who Shania Twain is, so it described her body, looks, and style all in one.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); Careful with that approach. In five years, a reader might scratch his head and say, "Shania Twain? Who's that?"  

ChaseRoberts New Member

NaCl Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); "ways to describe female body shape" Braille...give me braille every time! LOL  

KurtistheTurtle New Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); Wreybies said: ↑ Although not really a Ray Bradbury fan, in his The Martian Chronicles , he does the most poetic description of two men, one human, one Martian, separated in time and space, but both thinking about the same thing, beautiful women with bodies curved like the lines of boats. Click to expand...

echo_wolf New Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); If she is just a normal, average girl, I see a soft round face. Now you have body shape to deal with. You can use words like, soft feminen curves, or just curves, without being suggestive. If you are commenting on her upper reagon dont use soemthing like big boobs or hooters, insted, a reasonable bust. I hope this helps. Oh and for some reason, when I see a height of 5'5" or above for a girl, I would think skinnier. But this is coming from someone who is 5'0" weighing 120.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); Actually, the words you use in description can reveal a lot about the character whose POV you are presenting; so does the choice of features to describe. So describing her as having "large luscious hooters" or "bodacious sweater puppies" would say more about the POV character than about the girl he (or she) is describing. A different person might describe her as "curvy and gorgeous." So I wouldn't say don't use the more sophomoric terms. I'd say instead to choose wording that tells you about BOTH characters. It doesn't mean the writer thinks that way, unless you are using a more anonymous POV.  

AliceInBookland New Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); I think most people here are missing the "body shape" in the title, unless you are, in fact, looking for help describing her face and appearance in general. With regards to the body shape, I give you this advice: try to find a balance between something your male readers will understand, and something your female readers will understand. For example: Her blonde hair moved in a strawberry-scented cloud as she laughed politely at Dan. My eyes drifted, as usual, to the swell of her hips, swathed in a knee-length brown skirt that fit a touch too tight for modesty. Gabrielle would be in my dreams that night, with every inch of her soft, curvy body. A bad example for your specific question, since this refers to a woman who clearly attracts a lot of male attention. But to make my point: Male readers, when they see "soft, curvy body" are going to think of a pin-up girl, a small waist and rounded buttocks, a full bra and toned legs. A female reader is more likely to think of a more womanly character, possibly plus-sized. We've been conditioned to think that "curvy" and "womanly" are buzzwords for fat chicks to make themselves feel better. A female author might describe Cameron Diaz as "a leggy, superficial blonde whose exaggerated laugh made everyone wince at the possiblity of her striped tube top slipping down to her waist." A male author might describe her as "a tall, athletic blonde, with a wide, genuine smile and legs for miles." Depending on which sex you're writing for, that will help determine how to describe your character. 5' 7" and 160 pounds is a healthy weight that, distributed well, can be extremely attractive. For men who prefer more solid women, that's near the perfect weight. Do you want the main character to see her as slightly overweight, or does he eventually notice her and realize how perfect she is? For a woman who's simply not that noticeable until you get to know her, try this: don't really mention her body type until the moment your character does. The moment he notices the soft warmth of her thigh brushing his leg on the bench, or the moment she bends over to get a file from the drawer and he realizes how her ass is just begging to be spanked. Two very different characters, just then, but I don't know who your character is. I hope I've helped a bit.  

Some Guy Manguage Langler Supporter Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); If you can sell your character to your audience, you can sell any description he as an individual would use. For instance, my MC is a self-admitted high school moron, who watches a lot of things, including girls. If he notices her ass, he says "ass". Likewise "titties", "pussy", "nipples". If she's plump, it's "plump" (he likes plump). Likewise "chunky", "hottie", "Granola*", "fat", "pretty", "plain", and so on. Men/boys (same thing) are physically wired to take apart and measure everything , especially women. Then, determine characteristics that match their preferences, or add a characteristic to their preferences. Status will then be applied; mate, potential mate, relative, friend, enemy, etc. Do Not, Not, not describe what your character sees through reader filters. It's ultimately about what he feels when he sees a woman's (body) part, shape, whatever. Here's a more important point: to men, women shift, move, and present differently in every single moment, even when they sleep. A man is going to take that second look because of the way something moves on a woman more than just for contemplation of a snapshot. Maybe he likes the way her titties move as she breathes/walks/skydives... not for size. That's where the drama is. What does average mean to him ? *A Granola-Girl is a girl you would hike to the top of the hill with and just sit and eat Granola and watch the sunrise.  

deadrats Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_c11f4b36c5308ab495f6131433579150'); }); I recently sold a short story where I described a character as average. Didn't feel the need to get into it more or explain what average meant. It worked for the editor who bought my story. I'm just saying I wouldn't overthink it.  

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30+ Words to Describe Different Body Shapes and Sizes

By: Author Hiuyan Lam

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories Vocabulary Boosters

When describing characters, it isn’t enough to call them “tall” or “short”, or even “fat” or “slim”. It requires specific words to describe body shape to paint an image of the character in your readers’ heads.

Surely the character’s body shape is more than just a generalized term. You may even have two “fat” characters, but using the same words to describe them wouldn’t do much justice when one is stumpy, and the other is tall and paunchy.

Once you have conjured up the character in your head, you need to pay close attention to these words to describe their body shape and pick the most suitable ones:

7 words to describe a muscular/athletic body shape

  Not all muscular/athletic body types are the same. Sure, they all fall into the same category, but using more specific words to describe body shape paints an even clearer image of what you envision a character to be.   Here are 7 words to describe body shape for muscular/athletic characters:  

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7 words to describe a sexy body

  There are different understandings of what it means to be sexy, so you have to be more specific when writing about this body type.   For some, sexy means a person with large breasts and buttocks, while others find smaller features more attractive.   Take a look at these words to describe body shape for sexy characters, then take your pick:  

7 words to describe a fat body shape

  Now, let’s move on to characters one can generalize as “fat”.   Here are 8 words to describe body shape for the different versions of fat:  

20+ of the Nicest and Most Positive Words to Describe Elderly

8 slim body shapes

  Just as there are different versions of a fat body, there are different versions of slim body shapes. Use any of these words to describe body shapes of slim characters to paint a more accurate picture:  

25+ of the Best Words to Describe Fireworks in Writing

5 words to describe body shape when talking about body sizes

  You may also use words to describe body shape based on a character’s size. This will help to put things into perspective for your readers and makes your choice of words more effective.   Here are 5 words to describe body shape when talking about the character’s size:  

  And there you have it! 30+ of the best words to describe body shape for virtually any character you can think of.   Now, you can work on developing other elements of your story to complete a spectacular piece. Good luck!  

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150 Examples of Physical Descriptions of the Body

When it comes to crafting compelling narratives, whether in fiction, non-fiction, or other creative writing, the ability to vividly describe characters is a crucial skill. Physical descriptions serve as a writer’s brushstrokes, painting a picture that allows readers to visualize characters in their mind’s eye. By providing concrete details about a character’s appearance, you can breathe life into your story, creating more relatable, memorable, and engaging characters.

In this blog post, we’ll explore 150 examples of physical descriptions of the body. These descriptions are more than just surface details—they are tools to enhance your storytelling, making your characters feel more real and grounded in the world you’ve created. Whether you’re describing the hero of your novel, the antagonist in a short story, or even a real person in a memoir, having a rich vocabulary of physical traits at your disposal can significantly elevate your writing.

Physical descriptions can be particularly effective in establishing character traits, conveying mood, or highlighting contrasts between characters. For instance, a character’s muscular build might suggest strength or resilience, while a frail figure might evoke vulnerability. Similarly, a weathered face could tell a story of hardship and experience, while smooth, unblemished skin might suggest youth or naivety. These nuances can add depth to your characters and make them more dynamic and multifaceted.

This post is organized into several sections, each focusing on different aspects of physical descriptions, such as general body types, facial features, hair, eyes, and skin. By categorizing these examples, you’ll find it easier to mix and match descriptions to suit your needs, ensuring that your writing remains fresh and engaging. Whether you’re a seasoned writer looking for inspiration or a beginner trying to expand your descriptive repertoire, this comprehensive list will provide you with a wealth of options to draw from.

So, let’s dive into these 150 examples of physical descriptions of the body, designed to help you enrich your characters and enhance your storytelling.

Table of Contents

General Body Descriptions (1-30)

• Broad-shouldered

Face and Head Descriptions (31-60)

• Heart-shaped
• Square-jawed
• High cheekbones
• Sharp features
• Soft features
• Sunken cheeks
• Chiseled jawline
• Prominent chin
• Wide forehead
• Narrow face
• Wrinkled brow
• Smooth complexion
• Rosy cheeks
• Pale complexion
• Tanned skin
• Ruddy complexion
• Weathered skin
• Crow’s feet
• Dimpled cheeks
• Button nose
• Hooked nose
• Aquiline nose

Hair Descriptions (61-90)

• Receding hairline
• Shoulder-length
• Salt-and-pepper
• Platinum blonde
• Chestnut brown
• Golden highlights

Eyes and Eyebrows Descriptions (91-120)

• Almond-shaped
• Hooded eyes
• Monolid eyes
• Piercing gaze
• Squinty eyes
• Heavy-lidded
• Bright eyes
• Sparkling eyes
• Glazed-over eyes
• Bloodshot eyes
• Cat-like eyes
• Bushy eyebrows
• Thin eyebrows
• Arched eyebrows
• Straight eyebrows
• Sparse eyebrows
• Dark eyebrows

Skin and Complexion Descriptions (121-150)

• Smooth skin
• Flushed skin
• Rosy complexion
• Flawless complexion
• Sallow complexion
• Porcelain skin
• Honey-colored skin
• Alabaster skin
• Luminous skin
• Patchy complexion
• Calloused skin
• Glowing skin
• Blotchy skin

150 Examples of Physical Descriptions of the Body (Conclusion)

In this extensive list of 150 examples of physical descriptions of the body, we’ve explored a wide range of traits that can be used to paint vivid pictures of your characters or describe the people in your life. By incorporating these descriptions into your writing , you can create characters that are not only visually striking but also imbued with depth and personality. Physical traits are more than just cosmetic details—they can convey a character’s background, emotional state, and even foreshadow future actions.

Remember, the key to using physical descriptions effectively is balance. While it’s important to give your readers enough detail to form a clear image, it’s equally crucial not to overwhelm them with too much information at once. Integrate these descriptions naturally into your narrative, allowing them to enhance your storytelling rather than distract from it. For instance, instead of listing all of a character’s physical traits in one go, reveal them gradually through action, dialogue, and other characters’ perceptions.

Moreover, physical descriptions can be powerful tools in establishing contrast between characters, setting the tone of a scene, or even revealing something about the story’s setting. A character’s weathered skin might suggest a harsh environment, while another’s delicate frame could hint at a sheltered upbringing. These details help create a more immersive reading experience, drawing your audience deeper into the world you’ve crafted.

We hope this list has inspired you to experiment with your character descriptions and helped you realize the potential of well-crafted physical traits. Feel free to mix and match these examples to suit your characters, and don’t hesitate to add your unique twist to make them your own. Writing is, after all, a creative endeavor where your imagination sets the limits.

Finally, we encourage you to share your thoughts and favorite descriptions in the comments below. What physical traits do you find most compelling in a character? How do you use physical descriptions to enhance your storytelling? Your insights could help fellow writers further refine their craft. Happy writing!

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Helping writers become bestselling authors

Physical Feature Entry: Curvy Build

June 29, 2013 by BECCA PUGLISI

Physical description of a character can be difficult to convey—too much will slow the pace or feel ‘list-like’, while too little will not allow readers to form a clear mental image. If a reader cannot imagine what your character looks like, they may have trouble connecting with them on a personal level, or caring about their plight.  One way to balance the showing and telling of physical description is to showcase a few details that really help ‘tell the story’ about who your character is and what they’ve been through up to this point. Think about what makes them different and interesting. Can a unique feature, clothing choice or way they carry themselves help to hint at their personality? Also, consider how they move their body. Using movement will naturally show a character’s physical characteristics, keep the pace flowing and help to convey their emotions.

Descriptors: buxom, voluptuous, curvaceous, sensual, bosomy

People Likely to have an Curvy Build : confident women, celebrities

Famous Examples :

• Marilyn Monroe
• Dolly Parton
• Beyonce…

Thoughts on Curves:

With curves, attraction is in the eye of the beholder. For some, they don’t consider a woman curvy unless she’s got big boobs, a tiny waist and not a scrap of extra meat anywhere else. Others view full-figured women as ‘curvy’. The best way to show curves…

Simile Help:

• Connie floated across the room toward our table, swaying her hips like a runway model. She might be pushing forty, but the way her yellow dress melted into her curves caused even the prettiest twenty-something to bristle and send a glare her way…

 Clichés to Avoid : curves in all the right places

Twists on the Stereotypical Curvy Build:

• Curvy women always seem to be beautiful and young. What’s wrong with a middle-aged woman having strong bosom to waist to hip proportions? Or give us a woman with a beautiful body but a plain face?..

Describe your character’s features in a way that reveals more than just a physical description. Show what he looks like while also reinforcing his personality and emotional state, thereby doing more with less.

Need concrete examples of how to describe your character in a compelling, magnetic way? Good news!  This thesaurus has been integrated into our online library at  One Stop For Writers . There, you can find help with  metaphors and similes , as well as the best ways to  describe your character using movement.  The entire Physical Feature collection is cross-referenced and linked for easy navigation. If you’re interested in seeing a  free  sampling of the updated Physical Feature Thesaurus and our other descriptive collections, head on over and register at One Stop!

Becca Puglisi is an international speaker, writing coach, and bestselling author of The Emotion Thesaurus and its sequels. Her books are available in five languages, are sourced by US universities, and are used by novelists, screenwriters, editors, and psychologists around the world. She is passionate about learning and sharing her knowledge with others through her Writers Helping Writers blog and via One Stop For Writers —a powerhouse online library created to help writers elevate their storytelling.

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Reader Interactions

July 6, 2013 at 3:48 pm

Great post with awesome examples. It’s nice to see a discussion on curvy body types as compared to the emphasis on the ulta-thin model types. It seems to me that Marilyn Monroe is still considered a sex symbol, so that speaks volumes.

July 6, 2013 at 1:52 pm

I really enjoyed this post! Loved the examples. Great to encourage we writers to break out of the same old boring stereotypes, too. 🙂

July 1, 2013 at 2:18 am

Great post, Angela! Being on the full figure side of the coin, I liked what you had to say there: “Others view full-figured women as ‘curvy’.” 🙂

Good points made throughout; all very helpful.

June 30, 2013 at 11:49 am

Thanks, Angela. There is a lot to think about here. Breaking stereotypes almost always makes for a more interesting read.

June 29, 2013 at 10:03 pm

I guess what I meant by confident is that there is such emphasis on women to be skinny. Therefore, many women who are comfortable with being curvy are confident in how they look and don’t fall prey to the “you must be skinny to be beautiful” train of thought. I think there are enough women out there to qualify to put this in the “likely” category, but no, certainly not all curvy women are confident and i wouldn’t want to imply that they are. Thanks for weighing in! 🙂

June 29, 2013 at 9:58 pm

Oh, god, the granny example. I’m dying.

I would argue that women with a curvy build aren’t necessarily “confident.” Some have had the experience of being treated as sex symbols, and feel extremely uncomfortable with it. And with all this recent focus on being thin, other “curvy” women feel that their curves mean they’re “fat.”

Another idea for an unconventional “curvy” lady might be someone who tries to hide their shape.

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Writing women: physical descriptions.

This post was originally posted on another blog in 2021.

Literature has the power to harm or help the way women are viewed.

Below are some practices I use to make sure I’m describing women and girls fairly by not evaluating them based on their appearance. This takes practice. Even I have to break out of the bad habits that have been perpetuated for decades.

— Want more writing tips? Here are MY FAVORITE BOOKS ON WRITING! —

Cut the word “beautiful” when describing women

I first noticed this issue when reading Empire of the East by Fred Saberhagen. While I enjoyed the other aspects of the book, his descriptions of women grated on me. Every woman introduced in the story was evaluated by the male character as either beautiful, not beautiful, or “could be beautiful without all the dirt” (my summary). This measures the women’s value based on the male’s gaze and opinion of her. Is she attractive? Then she’s interesting. Is she ugly? Then she’s pitiful, poor girl. Is she dirty? Well, she could be beautiful, so maybe that makes her worth talking to.

This is an older book, and I don’t see this quite as often in newer work, but I think writers are still quick to evaluate a woman’s appearance based on her beauty without realizing they are doing it.

It reminds me of a video from the 1950s a bout body care and grooming that Mystery Science Theater 3000 riffed. In the video, women are compared to the “beauties in nature” that are meant to please men. When a woman with a few wardrobe errors walks by a man, she is accused of not letting him enjoy the beauty or “act like a human being.”

This is what our grandparents grew up with, and we’re still recovering from the idea that women exist to be beautiful.

While you may not choose to be this extreme, I’ve personally tried to reduce the word “beauty” (or any of its synonyms—pretty, attractive, etc.) from my descriptions unless it is necessary. In most cases, it’s simply not important to evaluate the appearance of the character.

However, there are a few cases where an evaluation can say something about the narrator. For instance, in a romance, the narrator will more than likely be attracted to the love interest. But what features do they find attractive, and can most of those features be personal rather than physical? Can you use the word “beauty” and be more specific about what the character notices? What physical aspects of women have been traditionally considered unattractive that we can uplift?

There are other reasons to use the word. Maybe you want to use the word beautiful to emphasize a beauty not typically represented. Maybe it’s important to the story that a woman is beautiful. Maybe you want to show that all women are beautiful in their own way.

The main thing I try to do is avoid further engraving the idea that there is only one kind of beauty or that a woman’s worth is connected to her beauty. The problem isn’t in the word “beauty” itself but in how it is used.

Choosing the right words when describing women

Just as the word “beauty” is an evaluative statement of a woman’s appearance, any word that has a negative or positive connotation is an evaluation of a specific feature. While I think it’s okay to use positive connotations, I do avoid negative ones.

Some examples: plain, pasty, unattractive, bony, pudgy

These words highlight the negative aspects of a neutral feature. Instead, neutral or positive words would be better.

The hard part about this is not knowing what words are considered negative or positive to the reader . Everyone has different feelings associated with different words. For instance, people often call me “skinny ” as if it is a compliment, but I have always viewed this as a negative word.

A character may also directly evaluate their own appearance based on things that have been stereotypically represented as “bad,” but it’s important not to overdo this or make your reader self-conscious about their own similar features. Does every girl, for instance, have to be self-conscious about her freckles? Maybe it would be good to have a characters who love their freckles, giving the reader permission to love their own.

But what about villains and unlikeable characters?

Too often, I think, ugliness is associated with meanness. If we can tell someone is a villain or meant to be unlikeable because of a mere description, there may be something wrong. While these characters can certainly be unattractive physically, I think it’s important to avoid perpetuating these stereotypes. Even though you’re describing a villain, negatively associating certain features with villainy can be harmful.

Avoiding evaluations based on weight when describing women

Weight descriptors can especially carry connotations. With this, I think about how I would want someone to describe me. As someone who is perpetually thin (the kind that makes moms beg you to eat seconds when you’re stuffed), I grow very insecure when I’m called “skinny” or “bony,” especially when it’s someone’s first reaction to meeting me. This tells me that this is the first thing people notice about me. I would much rather be described by my personality, or even my curly hair. If appearances must be described, then yes, smallness is a big part of my appearance and may even affect my personality in some ways—such as how I walk or sit or fidget. Still, I’d want a writer to emphasize something else as well.

I mention this because I’ve noticed that much of the body shaming movement focuses on empowering heavier women while shaming “skinny” women, and that may be why strangers feel it’s okay to tell me I need to eat more ( yes, this has happened ). It’s important that, in celebrating one type, we aren’t shaming the other type.

People are often insecure about their weight, so I think it’s okay for your characters to mention their concerns about their own appearance by describing themselves negatively. To me, what is more important is how your narrator views others. If they are describing another girl or woman with negative words such as “skeletal” or “pudgy,” for instance, the reader is expected to view the neutral characteristic (thin or full-bodied) as negative.

There are ways to describe size as well with a focus on smaller details. Instead of saying “she was skinny,” you could describe her “thin wrists” or “long fingers.”

The point isn’t to avoid describing weight but to provide neutral or positive descriptions.

Describing all types of women

I don’t think the answer is that we avoid descriptions altogether, nor that we only describe what we as a culture have traditionally considered to be beautiful features.

It’s okay to write that a woman has hunched shoulders, that her nails are dirty, or that her hair is frazzled. And it’s okay to write that a woman has curvy hips and manicured fingers. There are all kinds of women, and their appearance is only a small part of who they are.

If we overthink this, we may never write a description again. Go with your gut and describe as truthfully as you can.

In the end, a woman’s appearance is only a minuscule part of who she is.

That’s why the next point is so important.

Describe non-physical aspects of your characters

Like I said above about how I would want to be described, it’s important to give a full picture of your character. Otherwise, you are only revealing the tip of the iceberg. Show us how she is soft spoken or snorts when she laughs. Show her being bold or cautious. Let her be real and flawed and relatable. Because the point isn’t that you make all of your female characters “perfect” according to a traditional measure. The point is that we don’t determine their value based on their appearances. Instead, we introduce what they look like and then jump into getting to know who they are .

— Want more writing tips? Here are MY FAVORITE BOOKS ON WRITING —

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Welcome! I’m Emily Brooks. I write hopeful fantasy, poetry, and personal essays that encourage you to live courageously.

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