STI

What Does STI Mean?

The Quick Answer

STI means "Sexually Transmitted Infection" and "Subaru Tecnica International."

Sexually Transmitted Infection

STI usually means "Sexually Transmitted Infection." These are infections that are predominantly passed on through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal and oral sex. Some STIs can also be transmitted from mother-to-child during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding. More than 1 million STIs are acquired every day worldwide, the majority of which are asymptomatic (i.e., the infected person has no symptoms at the time). Common STIs include: chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital warts, genital herpes, pubic lice, scabies, syphilis, trichomoniasis, and human papillomavirus (HPV). STIs are also commonly known as STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases). Check out the CDC fact sheet on staying healthy and preventing STIs.

Subaru Tecnica International

Among aficionados of motor sport, STI means "Subaru Tecnica International." In this context, STI is the in-house tuning company of the Japanese car manufacturer Subaru. Since 1988, STI has helped Subaru establish itself among the elite of the World Rally Championship (WRC). Production models tuned by STI are much sought after by car enthusiasts.

Image for STI

When I write STI, I mean this:

"Sexually Transmitted Infection"

Summary of Key Points for the First Definition

"Sexually Transmitted Infection" is, by far, the most common meaning for STI when it is used in a text. (Bear in mind that it could have another meaning if used in a different context.)