Cannabis 101: Comprehensive Glossary of Cannabis Terms and Definitions
Introduction
As cannabis continues to grow in popularity for both medical and recreational use, understanding the language that surrounds it has become more important than ever. Whether you're a first-time consumer, a curious observer, or a seasoned user, terms like terpenes, indica, sativa, dabbing, and 420 might leave you scratching your head.
That’s why we’ve put together Cannabis 101: Glossary of Cannabis Terms—a detailed reference guide to help you decode the essential vocabulary of the cannabis world. From slang and scientific terms to legal jargon and consumption methods, this glossary is your key to becoming cannabis-literate.
Let’s dive into the cannabis dictionary every enthusiast should know.
Essential Terms to Know
1. 420
"420" is a cultural term widely associated with cannabis. It refers to both April 20th (4/20), a day celebrated by cannabis enthusiasts worldwide, and 4:20 p.m., a traditional time to partake in cannabis. Originating from a group of high school students in the 1970s, 420 is now a globally recognized symbol of cannabis culture.
2. 710
Similar to 420, "710" has grown in popularity as the concentrates counterpart to 420. When flipped upside down, 710 resembles the word “OIL,” referring to cannabis oils and dabbing concentrates. Celebrated on July 10th, 710 is gaining traction among users who prefer potent extracts like wax, shatter, and budder.
3. THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It’s responsible for the “high” users experience and binds with receptors in the brain to alter perception, mood, and cognition. THC is also known for its therapeutic effects in pain relief, nausea control, and appetite stimulation.
4. CBD (Cannabidiol)
CBD is the non-intoxicating cannabinoid known for its wide array of health benefits without producing a high. Often used for anxiety, inflammation, and epilepsy, CBD is federally legal in the U.S. when derived from hemp (containing <0.3% THC).
Related: CBD vs. THC: How Do They Differ?
5. Indica
Cannabis indica strains are typically associated with sedative effects—relaxation, pain relief, and sleep aid. They often have broader leaves and shorter stature and are recommended for nighttime use.
6. Sativa
Sativa strains tend to produce uplifting and energizing effects. These strains are associated with creativity, focus, and mood enhancement. Physically, sativa plants are tall with narrow leaves and lighter green coloring.
7. Hybrid
A hybrid is a cross between indica and sativa strains, combining their effects and characteristics. Hybrids can be indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or balanced.
8. Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are the active compounds in cannabis that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). Over 100 cannabinoids exist, including THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, and THCV, each with unique effects on the body and mind.
9. Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They influence a strain’s flavor, aroma, and effects. For example, myrcene promotes relaxation, limonene can improve mood, and pinene may enhance alertness.
10. The Entourage Effect
Entourage effect refers to the synergistic interaction of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds working together to enhance cannabis' therapeutic benefits. For example, THC and CBD may work more effectively in combination than in isolation.
Common Consumption Terms
11. Joint
A joint is a rolled cannabis cigarette made with rolling paper and ground flower. It may include a filter (crutch) for a smoother smoking experience.
12. Blunt
A blunt is cannabis rolled in a cigar or cigarillo wrapper, which contains tobacco. This results in a stronger and often more stimulating effect due to the nicotine content.
13. Bowl
The bowl is the part of a pipe or bong where ground cannabis is packed and smoked. Bowls are often removable on bongs and fixed on hand pipes.
14. Bong
A bong, or water pipe, is a filtration device used to smoke cannabis. Water cools and filters the smoke, making the inhalation smoother and less irritating to the throat.
15. Dab/Dabbing
Dabbing is a method of consuming cannabis concentrates by heating them on a hot surface (nail or banger) and inhaling the vapor. It’s known for its potency and rapid onset of effects.
16. Vape/Vaporizing
Vaporizing involves heating cannabis (flower or oil) to a temperature where it releases vapor instead of smoke. Vaping is often seen as a healthier alternative to smoking due to fewer carcinogens.
17. Edibles
Edibles are cannabis-infused food or drink products. They produce longer-lasting and often stronger effects than inhaled methods. Onset time can vary from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
18. Tinctures
Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts, often administered under the tongue (sublingually) for faster absorption. They are ideal for precise dosing and discreet use.
19. Topicals
Cannabis topicals are products like lotions, balms, or salves that are applied directly to the skin. They're used for localized relief from pain or inflammation and don’t produce a high.
Concentrates and Extracts
20. Concentrate
A concentrate is a potent extract derived from cannabis flower. Popular types include wax, shatter, rosin, budder, and oil. These products have higher cannabinoid content than traditional flower.
21. CO2 Oil
This is a type of concentrate made using CO2 as a solvent. It’s considered one of the cleanest extraction methods and is often used in vape cartridges.
22. Rosin
Rosin is a solventless extract made using heat and pressure. It’s favored by health-conscious users and is known for its purity and terpene retention.
23. Kief
Kief is the collection of trichomes (crystal-like resin glands) that fall off cannabis flower. It’s highly potent and often sprinkled on bowls or joints for an extra kick.
24. Shatter
Shatter is a translucent concentrate with a glass-like consistency that breaks apart easily. It's typically vaporized or dabbed.
25. Budder
Budder is a cannabis concentrate with a buttery texture. It’s rich in flavor and easier to handle than brittle forms like shatter.
Scientific and Botanical Terms
26. Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
The ECS is a complex cell-signaling system in the human body that helps regulate mood, appetite, pain, sleep, and immune function. Cannabis compounds interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors in this system to produce effects.
27. Trichomes
Trichomes are tiny, mushroom-shaped glands on the cannabis flower that contain the highest concentrations of cannabinoids and terpenes.
28. Phenotype
A phenotype refers to the observable traits of a cannabis plant, like color, height, aroma, and cannabinoid profile, determined by genetics and environment.
29. Pistil
The pistil is the reproductive organ of the female cannabis plant. It contains the hair-like stigmas that catch pollen from male plants.
30. Decarboxylation
Decarboxylation is the process of applying heat to activate cannabinoids, like converting THCA to THC. This process is essential when making edibles or oils.
Legal and Industry Terms
31. Adult-Use
Also known as recreational use, adult-use cannabis is legal for people 21 years or older in certain jurisdictions without needing a medical card.
32. Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana refers to the regulated use of cannabis for health conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy, cancer, and anxiety. It typically requires a doctor’s recommendation and medical merijuana card.
33. Dispensary
A dispensary is a retail store licensed to sell cannabis products. Medical dispensaries may require a card, while recreational ones serve any legal adult.
34. Certificate of Analysis (COA)
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a third-party lab report confirming the purity, potency, and safety of a cannabis product. Reputable brands and dispensaries provide COAs for transparency.
35. Budtender
A budtender is a dispensary employee trained to guide customers in choosing cannabis products based on their needs and preferences.
36. Medical Card
A medical card is a document that states you have been evaluated by a medical professional and cannabis can be used to alleviate the symptoms of your medical condition. The format of the medical card varies from state to state but they give the medical card holder the ability to legally purchase cannabis at licensed dispensaries. In states that allow recreational sale of cannabis, a medical card holder will typically be exempt from the taxes on recreational cannabis.
37. Medical Cannabis Certificate
A medical cannabis certificate is a document in Virginia that shows you have been evaluated by a licensed medical practitioner and meet the requirements for the state’s medical cannabis program. In Virginia this certificate can be used to enter dispensaries and purchase cannabis products.
38. Recertification
Recertification is a term used to describe a patient that is renewing their medical cannabis certificate or medical card. Most states require annual evaluations from a licensed doctor to determine if medical cannabis is still an appropriate treatment for the patient.
39. Renewal Discount
A discount offered to returning patients or patients that have possessed a medical card in the past. Many companies, including CannabisMD TeleMed, that help patients receive their medical card offer these discounts
40. Excise Tax
An excise tax is a targeted tax levied against a specific good or service. Most states that have cannabis sales of excise taxes imposed on cannabis products. Excise taxes on cannabis are usually higher than a typical sales tax. Most states have excise taxes on recreational cannabis but not on medical cannabis.
41. Telemedicine Appointment
A telemedicine appointment is a virtual consultation with a licensed medical provider using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. This method is commonly used for obtaining a medical cannabis certificate, allowing patients to be evaluated from the comfort of their home. CannabisMD Telemed specializes in secure, HIPAA-compliant telemedicine evaluations for Virginia residents.
42. Qualifying Condition
A qualifying condition is a medical diagnosis that legally permits a patient to access medical cannabis under their state’s program. Each state has its own list of qualifying conditions, but common examples include chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, epilepsy, and cancer. In Virginia, any condition a doctor believes will benefit from cannabis may qualify.
43. Licensed Medical Provider
A licensed medical provider is a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant authorized by the state to evaluate patients and issue medical cannabis certifications. These professionals determine whether a patient meets the criteria for a medical card based on symptoms and medical history.
44. Patient ID Number
A patient ID number is a unique identifier assigned to individuals who have been certified for medical cannabis use. In Virginia, this number appears on the medical cannabis certificate and is required for purchasing products at dispensaries. It helps verify patient eligibility and track legal usage.
45. Dispensary Registration
Dispensary registration refers to the process of registering with a licensed cannabis dispensary using your medical certificate or card. This registration may be required to purchase cannabis products and access patient-only pricing or benefits. In Virginia, this typically involves showing your medical cannabis certificate and a valid ID.
46. Caregiver Registration
In medical cannabis programs, a caregiver is someone legally authorized to obtain and administer cannabis on behalf of a qualified patient. Caregiver registration is required in many states, including Virginia, particularly for minors or patients with disabilities. Caregivers must also complete the certification process and be approved by the state or physician.
47. Same-Day Certification
Same-day certification refers to the fast-track process where a patient can be evaluated and issued a valid medical cannabis certificate within the same day. CannabisMD Telemed offers same-day certification for most patients in Virginia, helping them gain immediate access to dispensaries.
48. State-Issued Card (Optional)
In Virginia, a state-issued medical marijuana card is optional but may be used in conjunction with a practitioner-issued medical cannabis certificate. Patients can apply for this physical card through the Virginia Board of Pharmacy. However, dispensaries are legally required to honor the doctor’s certificate alone for entry and purchase.
49. Medical Use Only
"Medical use only" refers to cannabis purchased and used strictly for treating qualifying health conditions, as authorized by a physician. Products labeled for medical use may have higher potency, fewer restrictions, and reduced taxes compared to recreational options. Virginia’s medical cannabis program allows access to such products exclusively for certified patients.
50. HIPAA Compliance
HIPAA compliance refers to the adherence to federal health privacy laws that protect patient data during the medical cannabis evaluation process. Reputable providers like CannabisMD Telemed use encrypted, secure platforms to ensure patients' personal health information remains confidential during telemedicine appointments and communications.
51. Medical Cannabis Access
Medical cannabis access is the legal right of a certified patient to purchase, possess, and use cannabis products for therapeutic purposes. In Virginia, access is granted through a medical cannabis certificate issued by a qualified provider. This ensures that patients can obtain regulated products from licensed dispensaries with legal protection.
Slang Terms Worth Knowing
Understanding cannabis slang is not just about keeping up with the culture—it also helps you communicate more confidently at dispensaries, social events, and online forums. Below are some of the most widely used slang terms in the cannabis community:
Doobie
"Doobie" is a casual term for a cannabis joint, typically rolled by hand and shared among friends. It’s a throwback word popularized in the 1970s and still used today, often evoking a nostalgic or laid-back vibe. You might hear someone say, “Let’s light up a doobie by the fire.”
Blazed
To be blazed means to be high, often to the point of intense relaxation or altered perception. It's a common term among younger users and is frequently used to describe a strong cannabis experience. “After that dab, I was completely blazed.”
Stoned
Being stoned typically refers to the heavy, sedative high often associated with indica strains. The term suggests a sense of being weighed down or mellowed out, both mentally and physically. “I’m too stoned to move off the couch right now.”
Dank
“Dank” refers to high-quality cannabis that is potent, aromatic, and often sticky with resin. While the word “dank” originally meant damp and unpleasant, in cannabis culture it implies premium bud. “This is some seriously dank weed—look at all those trichomes!”
Munchies
The munchies is a common slang term for increased hunger after consuming cannabis, especially products high in THC. It’s not just a stereotype—cannabis genuinely stimulates appetite through its interaction with the endocannabinoid system. “We better stock up on snacks before the munchies hit.”
Ganja
Ganja is a traditional term for cannabis that originates from Sanskrit and is widely used in Jamaica and Rastafarian culture. It’s still commonly used to refer to the plant in a spiritual or cultural context. “Pass the ganja, let’s bless this session.”
Grass
An older term, grass was popular in the 1960s and 70s and simply refers to cannabis flower, especially when dried and ground. It’s often used nostalgically by older generations. “This grass isn’t as strong as it used to be.”
Weed
Weed is perhaps the most universally recognized slang for cannabis. It’s casual, mainstream, and widely used across generations. You’ll hear it in everyday conversation, media, and even in some branding.
Mary Jane
Mary Jane is a playful euphemism derived from the Spanish pronunciation of "marijuana" (marihuana). The name has been immortalized in songs, pop culture, and even cannabis strain branding. “I’m spending the night with Mary Jane.”marijuana,
Bud
Bud refers to the flowering part of the cannabis plant that is harvested and consumed. It’s the most potent part of the plant and is loaded with cannabinoids and terpenes. “This bud smells incredible—it’s got a citrusy aroma.”
Hit
A hit is a single inhalation of cannabis smoke or vapor. Whether from a joint, bong, or vape pen, taking a hit is the basic unit of consumption. “That was a big hit—I need a second to recover!”
Toke
To toke means to inhale cannabis, usually through a pipe, joint, or bong. It’s an older term still used in more relaxed, social circles. “Mind if I take a toke?”
Rolling
Rolling refers to the act of preparing a joint or blunt by hand. People often take pride in their rolling skills, especially when crafting creative or complex shapes. “She’s a pro when it comes to rolling cones.”
Spliff
A spliff is a joint that contains both cannabis and tobacco, commonly found in European cannabis culture. Many users enjoy the balanced headrush that tobacco can provide when mixed with weed. “This spliff has the perfect ratio—smooth and mellow.”
Zoot
Zoot is another word for a joint, popular in British and Caribbean slang. It's often used interchangeably with “spliff” or “doobie.” “Let’s burn a zoot before the movie.”
Chronic
The term chronic was popularized in the 1990s and refers to exceptionally potent cannabis. It became a mainstream term after being featured in hip-hop culture and Dr. Dre’s album The Chronic. “I’m only smoking chronic tonight—nothing less.”
Nug
A nug is a compact, high-quality piece of cannabis flower, typically rich in trichomes and aroma. The term is short for “nugget.” “Look at the size of this nug—it’s gorgeous!”
Zip
A zip refers to one ounce of cannabis, commonly used in dispensaries and among frequent buyers. The term comes from how cannabis is often packaged in ziplock bags. “I just picked up a zip of Blue Dream.”
Plug
A plug is someone who supplies cannabis, often informally or without a license. The term is frequently used in underground markets. “I texted my plug for an eighth—he should be here soon.”
Hotbox
To hotbox means to smoke cannabis in an enclosed space, such as a car or small room, allowing the smoke to build up. The result is often a more intense and communal high. “We hotboxed the tent and couldn’t stop laughing.”
One-Hitter
A one-hitter is a small pipe designed to deliver just one hit of cannabis. It’s discreet and ideal for microdosing or quick use on the go. “I keep a one-hitter in my bag for emergencies.”
Re-up
To re-up means to restock your cannabis supply, either by visiting a dispensary or contacting a supplier. “I’m running low—I need to re-up before the weekend.”
Conclusion
As cannabis continues to gain mainstream acceptance, understanding its terminology is key to confidently navigating dispensaries, wellness discussions, and medical consultations. From scientific terms like cannabinoids and terpenes to cultural references like 420 and dabbing, every word in this glossary reflects the rich and evolving cannabis landscape.
If you’re a Virginia resident exploring cannabis for therapeutic purposes, CannabisMD Telemed is your trusted partner in getting started. As the leading provider of medical marijuana card evaluations in Virginia, CannabisMD Telemed offers fast, secure, and fully virtual appointments with experienced cannabis physicians. With our expert guidance and personalized care, you’ll be empowered to make informed decisions and legally access medical cannabis with ease.
Keep this glossary handy as your go-to cannabis reference—and when you're ready to take the next step, book your consultation with CannabisMD Telemed and begin your wellness journey today.
FAQs
-
Cannabis is associated with the term "420" due to a group of high school students in California during the 1970s who would meet at 4:20 p.m. to search for a rumored hidden cannabis crop. Over time, 420 became a coded reference for cannabis use and evolved into a global counterculture symbol. Today, April 20th (4/20) is celebrated as an unofficial cannabis holiday worldwide. The term is now widely used in cannabis culture to refer to anything related to marijuana
-
The proper scientific term for the plant is Cannabis sativa or simply cannabis. While “marijuana” is commonly used in the U.S., the term has controversial origins and is falling out of favor in professional and legal settings. Cannabis is now the preferred term in most medical, legal, and scientific communities. It encompasses all uses—medical, recreational, and industrial (hemp).
-
In dating, particularly on dating apps, “420-friendly” or “420” is shorthand to indicate that someone uses or is comfortable with cannabis. It helps users quickly identify others who share similar views or habits regarding marijuana. For example, a profile might say “420-friendly” to avoid mismatches with non-users. It’s become a casual way to express openness to cannabis culture.
-
The number 710 is a cannabis slang term that refers to cannabis concentrates and oils, especially in the context of dabbing. When flipped upside down, “710” spells “OIL,” which is a popular form of cannabis extract. It has its own unofficial holiday, celebrated on July 10th (7/10), similar to how 420 is associated with April 20th. The term has grown in popularity with the rise of vaporizing and dab culture.
-
Cannabis goes by many nicknames, including weed, pot, ganja, grass, herb, and Mary Jane. These slang terms vary by region, generation, and subculture. “Weed” and “pot” are among the most widely recognized and used. Each nickname reflects different aspects of cannabis culture and history.
