English · Slang Attested

civ

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Civilization, a turn-based strategy video game from 1991 (and various sequels) in which the player attempts to build and maintain an empire throughout history.

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

If you have played Civ before then, you already know what I am talking about. If you haven't, then what are you waiting for?

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Civilization, a turn-based strategy board game from 1980.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “civ” mean?

Civilization, a turn-based strategy video game from 1991 (and various sequels) in which the player attempts to build and maintain an empire throughout history.

Is “civ” formal or informal?

civ is generally slang.