noun

juvie

JOO-vee

Juvie (noun) means informal term for a juvenile detention centre, where young offenders are held. Example: “He spent six months in juvie for the break-in.”

noun

Informal term for a juvenile detention centre, where young offenders are held.

"He spent six months in juvie for the break-in."

Informal term for a young offender or minor in trouble with the law.

"The show follows a group of juvies trying to turn their lives around."

How to use juvie

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSlang for juvenile detention, or for a young person in the justice system.

When to use it

Very informal — mainly spoken usage, common in American English.

Word forms

juvies plural

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He spent six months in _____ for the break-in.

Etymology

A casual shortening of juvenile, with the informal -ie ending added.

Rhymes for juvie

pie die lie tie sie vie hie i.e. brie movie eerie moxie

See all rhymes for juvie →

Frequently asked questions

What does “juvie” mean?

The word “juvie” means informal term for a juvenile detention centre, where young offenders are held. In plain terms, slang for juvenile detention, or for a young person in the justice system.

How do you pronounce “juvie”?

“Juvie” is pronounced JOO-vee (/ˈd͡ʒuːvi/ in IPA).

How do you use “juvie” in a sentence?

Here is “juvie” used in a sentence: “He spent six months in juvie for the break-in.”

What part of speech is “juvie”?

“Juvie” is a noun.

How many meanings does “juvie” have?

“Juvie” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: informal term for a juvenile detention centre, where young offenders are held.