noun
juvie
JOO-vee
noun
1
Informal term for a juvenile detention centre, where young offenders are held.
"He spent six months in juvie for the break-in."
2
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 notesIn 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.