Wifi

/ˈwaɪfaɪ/ noun

Definition

A technology that lets devices connect to the internet or each other using radio waves instead of wires. It allows you to go online without plugging in a cable.

Etymology

Coined in the late 1990s as a marketing-friendly name, echoing 'hi-fi' (high fidelity) audio systems. It does not literally stand for 'wireless fidelity,' though many people think it does.

Kelly Says

The name 'wifi' was chosen because it sounded catchy, not because it was a technical acronym. It shows how branding can shape the way we think tech works, even when the name is basically invented.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.