DWI

abbreviation or noun

ˌdē-ˌdə-bəl-(ˌ)yü-ˈī How to pronounce DWI (audio)
plural DWIs
1
US : the crime of driving a vehicle while intoxicated : dui
was arrested for DWI
a DWI charge/case
2
US : an arrest or conviction for driving while intoxicated
Brian's license had been revoked and his new job threatened after a third DWI.—Lee Durkee
3
US : a person who is arrested for or convicted of driving under the influence
a convicted DWI

Examples of DWI in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Washington Commanders fired tight end coach Ben Steele on the eve of training camp following a DWI arrest in June. — Armando Salguero, FOXNews.com, 30 July 2026 The three charges — DWI, refusing testing and obstruction/resisting arrest — are all class 1 misdemeanors in Virginia. — Nicki Jhabvala, New York Times, 27 July 2026 Wielding Expertise in Complicated Legal Challenges DWI and DUI charges often become an individual’s first contact with the criminal justice system. — Karen Koehler, Kansas City Star, 6 July 2026 Engen, 27, is charged with one count each of DWI, fourth-degree DWI and speeding. — Nick Lentz, CBS News, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for DWI

Word History

Etymology

driving while intoxicated

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of DWI was in 1950

Rhymes for DWI

See All Rhymes for DWI

Browse Nearby Words

dwg
DWI
Dwiggins
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“DWI.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/DWI. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Legal Definition

DWI

abbreviation
driving while intoxicated
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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