English

Alternative forms

• belly band, belly-band

Noun

bellyband ‎(plural bellybands)

1. (equestrianism) A strap around the belly of a horse or other draft animal used to secure a saddle or the shafts of a cart.
2. (fashion, medicine) Various constrictive bands worn around the belly, particularly:
   1. A band worn by expectant mothers to constrict and support the fetus.
   2. A band worn by babies to protect the navel.
   3. A haramaki: a band of cloth worn around the abdomen to preserve stomach qi and boost circulation.
3. (nautical) A band of canvas used to strengthen a sail.
4. A type of dust jacket that covers only a portion of a book.