Word
FBI
Phoneticsfbi
/ˈɛfˈbiˈaɪ/
Definitions
01US law enforcement agency
n. Stands for Federal Bureau of Investigation. This is the American government agency that handles national security and major crimes.
n. Abbreviation for Federal Bureau of Investigation. The primary federal investigative service of the United States government, responsible for domestic intelligence and law enforcement.
“The FBI is investigating the bank robbery because it involved a federal crime.”
“The FBI collaborated with local law enforcement to dismantle the international cybercrime ring after a two-year investigation.”
American English
Usage
Usually preceded by the definite article 'the'.
Synonyms
02humorous fake title
n. A joke name used on T-shirts or hats that stands for 'Female Body Inspector'.
n. A humorous or satirical initialism for 'Female Body Inspector', typically found on novelty apparel.
“He wore a hat that said FBI, but it stood for Female Body Inspector.”
“The use of 'FBI' as a joke acronym on tourist merchandise is often considered dated or immature in modern social contexts.”
Humorous · Slang · Informal
Teaching tip
This sense is often seen on cheap souvenirs; learners should be aware it can be viewed as sexist or low-brow.
Real-World Examples
“Records show they passed through at least three further FBI agents in the following two days.” “The FBI warned at the time: “Lang, who is considered an escape risk, may be sailing between Hawaii and other regions like Fiji and Mexico.”