Weed Terminology 101

Whether you’re a weed lover or just curious about what’s on the menu, this glossary is your best bud for figuring out all the lingo, slang, and shortcuts cannabis folks use. We’ll break it all down for you, no sweat!

Let this glossary be your gateway to empower you with knowledge, making your cannabis journey more enjoyable, informed, and personalized!

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# A B C D E F G H I J K L M O P Q R S T V W

NUMBERS

420

Originating from San Rafael high school students in the ’70s, 420 evolved as a code for meeting at 4:20 pm to enjoy cannabis. Now a widely embraced term, it signifies both a time of day and April 20th, celebrated nationwide in the cannabis community.

710

It’s kind of like 420, but for dabbers. You see, 710 flipped upside down spells “OIL,” and that’s exactly what it’s all about (cannabis concentrates). On July 10th, dispensaries and pot lovers everywhere get together to celebrate.

A

Accessories

These are tools aiding cannabis activities, from growing to consumption, encompassing lighters, rolling papers, bongs, and trays. Essential for enthusiasts, accessories play a pivotal role in the cannabis experience.

Ardent

An awesome brand that makes super-easy cannabis infusers. Their machines make it a breeze to both activate (decarboxylate) and infuse your cannabis into all sorts of goodies.

Aroma

Similar to fine wine, cannabis aromas define the scent and taste of each strain. From “earthy” to “citrusy” or “skunky,” these descriptions guide users in making informed choices before purchase.

Auto-Flowers

A unique cannabis plant type automatically transitions from vegetative growth to flowering, independent of light cycles. A fascinating variety for cultivators seeking efficient and convenient growth.

AVB

Referring to “already vaped bud,” this describes cannabis post-dry herb vaporization. AVB presents opportunities for repurposing and contributing to sustainable cannabis practices.

B

BHO

Butane Hash Oil is a popular cannabis concentrate. After purging residual butane, the resulting oil finds application in various consumption methods, including dabbing, vaping, and edibles.

Blunt

A cigar rerolled with cannabis, blunts offer a sociable smoking experience with various shapes, sizes, and flavors. Note the inclusion of tobacco in blunt wraps, catering to diverse preferences.

Blunt Wraps

Specifically, tobacco leaves from cigars are used to wrap cannabis for smoking. This type of wrap, while enhancing the smoking experience, includes tobacco, a consideration for those avoiding nicotine.

Bong

A filtration device for smoking cannabis or tobacco, typically made of glass or ceramic. Evolving beyond basic designs, modern bongs incorporate ice holders and ash catchers for enhanced purification.

Bowl

A small basin, often glass, for smoking weed. Whether part of a pipe or a standalone bong component, packing a bowl signifies a common and enjoyable cannabis ritual.

Broad Spectrum

Refers to a type of cannabis product that contains a wide range of cannabinoids, offering potential health benefits without the psychoactive effects associated with THC.

Buds

Are the dried, unprocessed flowers of the female cannabis plant. They contain the highest concentration of cannabinoids, the stuff responsible for the plant’s psychoactive and therapeutic effects.

Budtender

They’re the folks who help you out at the dispensary. They’re super chill and know tons about weed, so feel free to ask anything. They can even suggest stuff based on what you’re looking for.

C

Cannabinoids

Unique compounds in the cannabis plant, with over 150 variations. THC and CBD stand out among them, influencing the plant’s therapeutic and recreational properties.

Cannabis

A genus of flowering plants, including Cannabis ruderalis, sativa, and indica, found across the globe. The plant holds cultural significance for its diverse applications, both medicinal and recreational.

Cannabis Industry

An umbrella term encompassing all occupations related to cannabis use, spanning medicinal and recreational purposes. The industry is dynamic and evolving, reflecting changing attitudes towards cannabis.

Cannabis Powder

Referring to ground, decarbed cannabis or cannabis oil powder made with maltodextrin. This versatile term covers various cannabis applications, from cooking to manufacturing.

Cannabis Strain

Each plant’s unique traits, whether sativa, indica, or hybrid, dictate size, yield, growth environment, and therapeutic effects. Strain selection shapes the cannabis experience.

Capsule

A diminutive and hollow pill pocket meticulously crafted to house an array of cannabis forms, offering a convenient and discreet method of consumption.

CBD

Cannabidiol, is a natural compound in cannabis known for its potential health benefits. It doesn’t make you high and comes in various forms like oils and gummies.

CBDA

Cannabidiolic acid, a non-intoxicating cannabinoid precursor to CBD. Decarboxylation transforms CBDA into CBD, showcasing the dynamic nature of cannabis compounds.

CBG

Cannabigerol, a non-intoxicating cannabinoid known as the ‘mother cannabinoid. It doesn’t make you high and has a wide range of health benefits.

CBGA

Cannabigerolic acid, a precursor to CBG, naturally present in the cannabis plant. The decarboxylation process converts CBGA into the sought-after CBG, illustrating the intricate chemistry of cannabis.

CBN

Cannabinol, a slightly intoxicating cannabinoid with sedative properties. Derived from the degradation of THC, CBN is often associated with its calming effects.

Chlorophyll

Is the green pigment you see in plants like cannabis. Super important for plant processes like photosynthesis and nutrient absorption.

CO

Cannabis oil, is a broad term encompassing various cannabis oil types. A potent liquid extract from the cannabis plant, often used for medical or recreational purposes.

Concentrates

Concentrates are potent forms of cannabis made by extracting the plant’s essential compounds, like THC and CBD, to create highly concentrated oils, waxes, and shatters.

Cottonmouth

Refers to the dry sensation in the mouth that can occur after using cannabis, making your mouth feel parched or sticky

Couch Lock

Ever get so relaxed after smoking that you feel glued to the couch? That’s called couch lock. It’s basically a feeling of super heavy relaxation, where you just want to melt into the furniture.

Cultivar

A sophisticated term interchangeable with cannabis strain. Refers to a carefully bred or cultivated version of a plant with distinct features, like taste or appearance, designed for specific preferences or needs.

Cultivation

It’s the process of taking a seed and nurturing it into a full-fledged plant, whether indoors or outdoors, using natural or artificial light, and either soil or other mediums.

D

Dab

Are super strong forms of cannabis. They’re made by taking the THC and other cannabinoids out of the plant using things like butane or CO2. This leaves you with a sticky oil, wax, or something like budder.

Dank

Slang denoting high-quality or potent cannabis. Describing top-tier products, “dank” highlights the sought-after characteristics of exceptional cannabis.

Decarboxylation

Is a process that activates the cannabinoids in cannabis. This means it turns the “acid” forms of cannabinoids, like THCa and CBDa, into their active forms, THC and CBD.

Delta-8 | THC (Δ8)

Delta-8 is a cannabis compound that gives a mild high, different from Delta-9 THC. it can be used in various products like edibles and vapes.

Delta-9 | THC (Δ9)

Delta-9 is the part of cannabis that makes you feel high. It’s in THC, the compound behind the plant’s psychoactive effects.

Dime Bag

It’s a common term used to describe a small amount of cannabis that’s enough for personal use, often found in a small bag or pouch

Dispensary

Is a place where you can legally buy and access a range of cannabis strains, edibles, concentrates, and other related products.

Distillate

A refined cannabis concentrate achieved through distillation, featuring high potency. Distillate finds versatile use in vaping cartridges, edibles, and beverages, showcasing its adaptability.

Dosage

The quantity of cannabis, measured in milligrams, present in a serving. Understanding dosage is essential for precise consumption, especially in edibles.

Dry Herb Vape

Also know as vaporizer, is a special device that uses hot air to gently extract the good stuff from the cannabis flowers without burning it. This gives you a smoother, cleaner, and more flavorful experience compared to smoking.

E

Edibles

Edibles are delightful cannabis-infused treats offering a subtle, lasting, and flavorful method to savor the advantages of cannabis. Common types include brownies, gummies, and cookies.
Want to learn some edible recipes? You are in the right place!

Eighth

Slang for 1/8th ounce, the standard weight of cannabis flower. Embraced by enthusiasts, 3.5 grams signify this common measurement in cannabis transactions.

Endocannabinoid Receptors

Are like tiny locks in our bodies that respond to cannabis cannabinoids, influencing various physiological processes throughout the body, from the brain to the immune system.

Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system is like a regulatory superhero within our bodies. It’s a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids that work together to maintain balance and harmony in various physiological processes.

Extract

Concentrated cannabis oil products are achieved through solvent-based processes like butane and CO2. Distinct from distillates, extracts offer rich amber oils with nuanced properties.

Extraction

It’s the process of pulling out all the good stuff. This helps create oils, concentrates, or other products that can be used in edibles, tinctures, or vapes for a more potent and controlled experience.

F

Fan Leaf

A fan leaf is one of the larger, distinctive leaves on a cannabis plant. Easily recognizable and are often removed during the cultivation process to promote better airflow and light penetration to the lower parts of the plant.

FECO

Full Extract Cannabis Oil, is a potent concentrate made by extracting all beneficial compounds from the cannabis plant using a solvent. It’s valued for its concentrated therapeutic properties and is commonly used for medical purposes.

Female Plants

Cannabis plants producing buds, the primary source of cannabinoids. Female plants, ideal for THC production, play a pivotal role in cannabis cultivation.

Firecrackers

Firecrackers cannabis refers to a popular and straightforward homemade edible that combines cannabis with crackers and other simple ingredients. These tasty treats offer a convenient way to enjoy the effects of cannabis without the need for complex cooking processes.

Flower bud

An essential part of the cannabis plant, contains trichomes, cannabinoids, and terpenes.

G

Glass

An informal term for popular cannabis consumption methods involving bongs, pipes, or bubblers. These glass products are popular among cannabis enthusiasts for their durability, ease of cleaning, and the enhanced smoking experience they provide.

Grain Alcohol

High-proof alcohol serves as an excellent choice for crafting cannabis tinctures, as its elevated alcohol content ensures efficient extraction of cannabinoids from the plant material.

Grinder

A grinder is a tool used to break down dry cannabis buds into smaller, more manageable pieces. It typically consists of two interlocking parts with teeth that shred the cannabis when twisted.

H

Hash

Hash is a concentrated form of cannabis made by extracting the resin glands, or trichomes, from the plant. These resin glands contain cannabinoids, which are the active compounds responsible for the effects of cannabis.

Hemp

Hemp is a versatile plant that belongs to the cannabis family but contains minimal amounts of THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana.

Hemp Seed Oil

Hemp Seed Oil is a natural oil that comes from hemp seeds. It’s like a superfood for your skin and body. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, this oil is known for its moisturizing and nourishing properties.

Hotbox

Refers to the practice of smoking or vaping cannabis in an enclosed space, like a car or small room, to intensify the effects by keeping the smoke or vapor concentrated.

Hybrid

Is a type of marijuana created by combining the genetics of sativa and indica plants. This results in a diverse range of effects and plant characteristics.

Hydroponics

Is a cool system where instead of digging in the soil, cannabis plants get their nutrients straight from a special water solution, packed with everything they need to thrive. This method makes plants grow faster and produce more buds.

I

Ice Wax

Is a premium cannabis concentrate made by extracting trichomes with ice and water. It delivers a potent and flavorful experience through methods like dabbing or adding to joints.

Indica

One of three cannabis species, known for shorter, bushier plants and a relaxing “body high.” The plant itself is characterized by broad leaves and a shorter, bushier stature compared to other cannabis types.

Infusion Machine

A compact machine that effortlessly adds flavors, like herbs, to liquids, making it simple to enhance your cannabis-infused recipes or drinks.

IP

Instant Pot, is a versatile device for decarboxylation or infusion. It’s like a super-speedy all-in-one cooker for quick and tasty cannabis dishes.

J

Joint

A cannabis-filled cigarette rolled using non-tobacco papers. Unlike blunts, joints offer a pure cannabis smoking experience without nicotine.

K

Kief

A Cannabis product made from the trichomes of the cannabis plant. It contains a high concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes. Often used to enhance the potency of joints, blunts, and edibles.

Kush

A specific Indica strain originating from the Hindu Kush mountains, known for a unique aroma and potent sedative effects.

L

Lecithin

Is this cool stuff that helps everything stick together nicely and might even make your treats hit a bit faster. It’s a key player in the whole edible-making game.

LEVO

A specific type of cannabis infusion machine that seamlessly combines decarboxylation and infusion processes. A magic tool for those like me who love to make edibles at home!

Live Resin

It’s this super strong cannabis extract with a crazy fresh taste and smell. They make it by squeezing resin out of freshly picked plants, so it keeps all that natural flavor and aroma. Dabbing or vaping is how most people enjoy it.

M

Male Plant

Plants producing pollen for fertilizing female plants. With lower THC content, they lack cannabinoid-rich buds and are often removed from cultivation to prevent pollination.

Marijuana

A broad term encompassing female cannabis plants and their flowers, with various slang terms like bud, pot, mary jane, and ganja.

Mary Jane

A slang term referring to the cannabis plant, adding a touch of familiarity to cannabis culture.

MBM

This is the name for a cool kitchen gadget called the Magic Butter Machine. It’s basically a kitchen helper that lets you easily infuse cannabis and herbs, into butter, oil, and other liquids.

MCT

Is a type of fat found naturally in coconut oil and other sources. It stands for “medium-chain triglycerides,” meaning the fat molecules are shorter than those in most other fats.

Medibles

Are cannabis-infused edibles, like cookies or gummies, offering a tasty way to consume the medicinal benefits of cannabis without smoking.

Medical Marijuana

Used for medical purposes with a medical cannabis card and professional supervision, emphasizing therapeutic benefits.

Munchies

Strong food cravings associated with post-cannabis consumption.

O

Oil rig

A device designed for inhaling various cannabis concentrates, offering a unique consumption experience.

Ounce

It’s a common way people informally talk about a quantity of marijuana, and it’s equivalent to approximately 28 grams.

P

Papers

Thin paper wraps, also known as rolling papers, used for rolling cannabis into joints and pre-rolls.

Pot

An informal slang term for cannabis, originating from the Spanish word “potiguaya” meaning marijuana leaves.

PPM

Parts per million, the standard measurement for residual solvents or pesticides in cannabis products.

Pre-rolls

Pre-prepared joints or blunts are available for purchase at dispensaries, catering to those who prefer not to roll their own.

Psychoactive Effects

The term describing the “high” feeling associated with THC consumption, the psychoactive cannabinoid.

Pull n’ Slap

A term describing the consistency of shatter, malleable and flexible but breaks when hit against something.

Purging

The process of removing residual solvents from a concentrate, ensuring product safety.

Q

QWET

Quick wash extraction technique, a method for making cannabis tinctures, also known as the “Golden Dragon.” It’s a quick process designed to keep the desirable compounds while minimizing unwanted ones.

R

Recreational Cannabis

Cannabis consumption without a medical card, often for relaxation and enjoyment rather than targeted medical use.

Rig

Devices for consuming concentrates, waxes, or shatters, involving heating a nail with a torch for vapor inhalation.

Roach

The end of a joint or blunt too small to be smoked, often discarded.

Rosin

Solventless concentrate made by applying heat and pressure to squeeze resinous sap from the flower.

RSO

Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is a potent cannabis extract with high THC levels, known for its therapeutic effects. It’s made by extracting cannabinoids using a solvent, often ethanol, and is used orally or topically for potential medical benefits.

Ruderalis

One of the three cannabis species, distinguished by lower THC levels than Indica and Sativa counterparts.

S

Sativa

Cannabis species that provide an energetic and uplifting high, are often associated with increased creativity and sociability.

Shatter

A potent and pure form of concentrate with a glass-like appearance, easily breaking into pieces. Used for dabbing.

Spliff

A spliff is a rolled cannabis cigarette that typically combines marijuana with tobacco. It’s a joint with a mix of both substances, allowing users to experience a blend of the effects produced by cannabis and tobacco.

Strain

A specific species of cannabis plant, either pure or hybrid, with unique characteristics influencing taste, aroma, and effects.

Supercritical CO

A safe and efficient method of extracting essential oils from plant material using supercritical carbon dioxide.

T

Terpene

Terpenes are natural compounds in cannabis that give it different smells and flavors. They also work with cannabinoids to affect the overall effects of the plant.

THC

THC is a natural compound found in cannabis plants. It’s the main psychoactive component responsible for the ‘high’ sensation people experience when using cannabis.

THCA

THCA is a natural compound in raw cannabis. It becomes THC when heated, causing the psychoactive effects commonly associated with marijuana

THCV

Tetrahydrocannabivarin is a natural compound in cannabis. It’s similar to THC but is known for providing a more energetic and uplifting effect.

Tincture

A tincture is a potent liquid extract of herbs or cannabis, created by soaking them in alcohol. It’s commonly used for medicinal or culinary purposes.

Topical

Refers to cannabis-infused products, such as creams, balms, or lotions, designed to be applied directly to the skin. These products are created to provide localized relief from issues like pain, inflammation, or skin conditions without causing a psychoactive effect.

Trichomes

Trichomes are tiny, hair-like structures on cannabis that hold potent oils, including THC and CBD, influencing the plant’s effects.

Trim

Leaves cut off from the plant, either fan leaves or sugar leaves, with various applications in cannabis culture.

V

Vape Pens

Resembling pens, these devices come in two types: dab pens for concentrated cannabis products and vape pens for cannabis oil cartridges, offering a convenient and discreet way to inhale cannabis concentrates.

Vaping

An inhalation method utilizing vape pens, dry herb vaporizers, or cannabis oil vaporizers, providing a nuanced approach to cannabis consumption.

Vaporizer

A methodical way to consume cannabis, vaporizers heat flower or oil to a specific temperature, transforming it into vapor instead of smoke, offering a controlled and flavorful experience.

W

Wake and Bake

A colloquial term describing the practice of consuming cannabis shortly after waking up, reflecting a unique and cherished ritual among cannabis enthusiasts.

Wax

Wax is a potent cannabis extract with a solid, smooth texture. It’s made by extracting cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, often used for dabbing by vaporizing and inhaling.

Weed Nug

A nug is a smokable, self-contained piece of cannabis flower. Vary in size and color depending on their genetics and how they were cultivated and typically fit in the palm of one’s hand.

Withdrawal

Refers to the set of symptoms (physical and psychological) that some individuals may experience when they abruptly reduce or stop their regular cannabis use.

Understanding every term takes time, and, just like every cannabis enthusiast, your journey begins with curiosity! Keep this slang glossary in your favorites tab. I made it with just one thing in mind: to assist you in seamlessly navigating the cannabis landscape.

Take your time, absorb the knowledge, and don’t forget to stop by from time to time; I will be updating this list with new terms and cannabis terminology!