Wi-Fi meaning: definition, etymology and quotations

Wi-Fi

noun

/ˈwaɪ.faɪ/ · Philippines /ˈwaɪ.faɪ/

Etymology Coined in analogy to Hi-Fi as a trade name developed for the Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance (later Wi-Fi Alliance). Often analyzed as a shortened form of wireless fidelity (similar to how hi-fi is short for high fidelity); this is possibly due to the former slogan of the aforementioned Wi-Fi Alliance, The Standard for Wireless Fidelity.

Computing, Engineering, Mathematics, Natural sciences, Networking, Physical sciences, Sciences Any of several standards for short-range wireless data transmission (IEEE 802.11).

Computing, Engineering, Mathematics, Natural sciences, Networking, Physical sciences, Sciences Wireless networking using one of these standards.

Mimi gave Fifi access to her Wi-Fi.
He couldn't connect to the Wi-Fi in this area.

2 more examples

This coffee shop has Wi-Fi for its customers.
He asked me if I knew the Wi-Fi password.2020, Avni Doshi, Burnt Sugar, Hamish Hamilton, page 13:

Informal The capability to connect to a Wi-Fi network.

The refrigerator cost 1000 more dollars just because it had Wi-Fi, and I'm thinking "this is ridiculous"!

A Wi-Fi network.

Derived terms: do you have Wi-Fi, what is the Wi-Fi password, wi-fi array, WiFier, WiFiless, WiFilike, Wi-Fi warrior
Related terms: hi-fi, lo-fi, WiMAX

Wi-Fi

verb

To equip with Wi-Fi; to Wi-Fi enable.

What type of electronics will be immune from being Wi-Fied?2003 September 15, Scott Bradner, “So why isn't it wireless?,”, in Network World, volume 20, number 37:
The biggest market may be Wi-Fi-ing people's homes.2003, Business Week - Issues 3827-3830:

2 more examples

To Wi-Fi or Not to Wi-Fi?2004, Jon Edney, William A. Arbaugh, William Arbaugh, Real 802.11 Security: Wi-Fi Protected Access and 802.11i, page XVI:
There was no point in being off the grid if the vehicle you drove was Wi-Fied to it with every turn of the wheels.2017, Dean Koontz, The Silent Corner, page 10:

To connect to the Internet using Wi-Fi.

The hotel manager even claims he's seen Red Sox problem child Manny Ramirez Wi-Fi-ing in the lobby on his Palm.2003, Newsweek - Volume 142, Issues 18-25, page 76:
Perhaps someone sees you typing in confidential information while you are "Wi-Fi-ing" in a hotel lobby or a crowded airport waiting area.2004, Harold Davis, Absolute Beginner's Guide to Wi-Fi Wireless Networking, page 237:

1 more example

If Addison and Steele were alive and holding court at Starbucks, they'd be Wi-Fi-ing into a joint blog.2004, Vanity Fair - Issue 524, page 146:

Related terms: AirPort, HomeIR, HomeRF, PAN