Pronunciation: [d͡ʒˈuːvi] (IPA) 
The spelling of the slang term "juvie" is derived from the pronunciation of the word "juvenile". The IPA phonetic transcription for "juvie" is /ˈdʒuːvi/. As "juvie" is a shortened and informal version of "juvenile", the "n" sound is omitted, with the remaining "juv" sound being transcribed as /dʒuːv/. This omission is common in informal or slang language, where words are often shortened or spoken quickly for ease and efficiency.
Juvie is a slang term that is also used as an abbreviated form of the word "juvenile" and is typically associated with a legal context. It refers to a colloquialism used to describe a juvenile facility or a detention center that incarcerates minors who have been convicted of various crimes. Juvie is often used to refer to locked institutions specifically designed for youthful offenders under the age of majority, which can vary by jurisdiction but is typically considered to be 18 years old.
Juvie facilities are intended to serve as corrective measures or rehabilitation centers aimed at reforming young individuals by providing education, counseling, and training programs. The primary objective of juvie is to guide young offenders towards positive behavior, perspective transformation, and successful reintegration into society.
Due to its informal nature, the term "juvie" often carries a negative connotation, reflecting a punitive environment or harsh conditions within these institutions. It may also emphasize the perception that juveniles housed in such facilities are stigmatized or deemed incapable of being rehabilitated.
In everyday language, the term "juvie" is commonly used to refer to both the facility and the juvenile offender themselves. It is often utilized in informal conversations or within colloquial literature to draw attention to the interaction between youth and the criminal justice system.
The word "juvie" is a slang term derived from "juvenile" or "juvenile delinquent". "Juvenile" originates from the Latin word "juvenilis", meaning "young", which is the diminutive form of "juvenis", meaning "young person". "Juvie" emerged as a shortened form of "juvenile" and started being used in the mid-20th century to refer to a young person who has committed a crime or been adjudicated as delinquent. It is primarily used colloquially to refer to a juvenile correctional facility or a place where young offenders are detained.
