Other Names for Weed (Popular Terms To Know)
You might know it as weed, marijuana, or cannabis, but the fact is, this versatile plant goes by many names in different places and cultures throughout history.
With over 1,200 slang terms and more than 2,300 names for individual strains, the number of names for this popular plant is astonishing.
It’s intriguing to see how these alternate names have evolved over time, often reflecting the creativity and resourcefulness of the communities that use and enjoy the substance.
Slang names date back to the jazz era, when terms like reefer, gauge, and jive were commonly used.
As the years went by, newer slang names emerged like trees, dank, chronic, and sticky icky.
These terms often describe the quality, aroma, and potency of the plant, while also reflecting the cultural and regional influences that contribute to their origin.
Nicknames, street names, and synonyms for weed are not only a testament to the diversity of the cannabis culture but also provide insight into how it has been woven into the fabric of society.
Regardless of the name it goes by, the plant remains an integral part of many peoples’ lives, displaying its impact across the globe.
Cultural Slang For Weed
As cannabis culture has evolved throughout history, so has the slang associated with it.
For instance, 420 has become a globally recognized term for cannabis and its culture.
It originated from a group of friends in 1971 who would meet at 4:20 PM each day to share a joint.
Today, April 20th (4/20) is even celebrated as a weed holiday by smokers around the world.
Cannabis has many nicknames depending on the region and culture.
In Jamaica, it’s often referred to as ganja—which comes from the Sanskrit term for hemp.
In South Africa, dagga is the local term for cannabis.
In the Caribbean, you might hear it referred to as kaya or bo, while in Australia, they often call it bush.
In some regions, the method of consumption also plays a part in slang terms.
For example, in India and Bangladesh, bhang is a traditional drink made from cannabis leaves and flowers. In Nigeria, you might hear it called ibo, while in Japan, it’s nicknamed taiho.
Here are some more slang terms associated with cannabis:
- Pakalolo: This Hawaiian term for cannabis translates to “numbing tobacco.”
- Bomb: A term that gained popularity in the ’90s, it usually refers to high-quality cannabis with potent effects.
- Doobie: A classic term for a cannabis joint.
- Mary Jane or MJ: The origin of the term “Mary Jane” for marijuana is not entirely clear, but there are a few theories. One theory suggests that it comes from the Spanish name “MarÃa Juana,” which sounds similar to “marijuana” when pronounced in English. Another theory suggests that it comes from the term “Mary Warner,” which was a slang term for a cigarette in the early 20th century.
These diverse names and expressions highlight the global influence of cannabis culture.
As you explore different regions and cultures around the world, you’ll likely encounter even more creative and unique slang for this versatile plant.
Unique Cannabis Names
When it comes to smoking weed, there are countless slang terms used to describe the experience.
One of the most common is the joint, and even that has a variety of nicknames.
Uncommon Slang Names
If you’re looking for a unique name for your joint, consider some of these uncommon slang terms:
- Asparagus: This nickname is often used to describe a joint that is long and thin, like the vegetable.
- Aunt Mary: This is a classic nickname for marijuana that has been around for decades.
- Baby: If you’re smoking a small joint, this nickname might be appropriate.
- Bhang: This is a term used in India to describe a drink made from cannabis.
- Blaze: This is a common term for smoking marijuana, but it can also be used to describe a joint.
- Broccoli: This nickname is often used to describe the appearance of a nug of marijuana, but it can also be used to describe a joint.
- Catnip: This term is often used to describe marijuana that is low in potency.
Regional Slang Names
In addition to the uncommon slang names, there are also regional slang names that are used to describe joints.
Here are a few examples:
- Chinese: This is a term used in Jamaica to describe a joint made with Chinese tobacco.
- Christmas tree: This is a term used in the Pacific Northwest to describe a joint that is rolled with a conical shape.
- Climb: This is a term used in the UK to describe a joint that is rolled with a spiral shape.
- Da kine: This is a term used in Hawaii to describe high-quality marijuana.
- Grifo: This is a term used in Brazil to describe a joint that is rolled with a mix of marijuana and tobacco.
- Ham: This is a term used in the UK to describe a joint that is rolled with a slice of ham.
As you can see, there are many unique cannabis names that can be used to describe a joint.
Whether you’re looking for an uncommon slang term or a regional nickname, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Weed Varieties
Sativa Strains
Sativa strains are derived from Cannabis sativa plants.
These strains are known for their uplifting, energetic effects. They are often favored by those seeking an invigorating experience, creativity boost, or help with focus.
Some popular sativa strains include:
- Blue Goo: a mix of Blue Dream and Agoo
- Jack Herer: a classic strain with a piney, earthy aroma
Indica Strains
Indica strains come from Cannabis indica plants.
They are known for their relaxing, sedative effects.
People often turn to indica strains for help with sleep, pain relief, and stress management.
A couple of well-known indica strains are:
- Bubba Kush: a deeply relaxing strain with notes of coffee and chocolate
- Northern Lights: a popular strain known for its calming effects
Hybrid Strains
Hybrid strains are created by crossing sativa and indica strains, resulting in a balanced mix of effects.
These strains can have varying levels of sativa and indica characteristics, depending on the parent plants. Some noteworthy hybrid strains include:
- Bruce Banner: named after the Hulk, this strain offers a high-energy experience
- Girl Scout Cookies: a sweet, earthy strain with a balanced mix of relaxation and upliftment
Ruderalis Strains
Ruderalis strains are based on Cannabis ruderalis plants.
Although they’re not as well-known as sativa or indica strains, ruderalis strains have gained popularity in recent years due to their ability to autoflower.
This means they can grow and complete their life cycle without needing specific light cycles.
As a result, ruderalis-dominant strains are often used in crossbreeding to create new varieties with desirable autoflowering characteristics.
Terms For Weed Amounts
When it comes to buying or measuring weed, there are various terms and units you may come across.
Let’s look at some common terms for weed amounts, focusing on weed units and slang for weed weight.
Weed Units
Weed is often measured and sold in specific units. Here are some common measurement units:
- Gram (g): A gram is the smallest and most common unit for weed. It’s great for those who want to try a new strain or who only need a small amount.
- Eighth (1/8 oz): An eighth is equivalent to 3.5 grams and often has a cheaper price per gram than buying just a gram.
- Quarter (1/4 oz): A quarter contains 7 grams of weed. This is a popular amount for regular users who want to save some money by buying in larger quantities.
- Half (1/2 oz): A half ounce amounts to 14 grams of weed. Buying a half ounce usually results in an even better price per gram.
- Ounce (oz): An ounce contains 28 grams of weed, making it a considerable amount for heavy users or those who want to share with friends.
Slang For Weed Weight
In addition to the standard units, there are a few slang terms related to weed weight:
- Dime bag: A dime bag usually contains about $10 worth of weed, which might be around 1 gram, depending on local prices.
- Dub sack: A dub sack refers to $20 worth of weed, often consisting of 2 grams or slightly more.
- Twenty (20): Also representing $20 worth of weed, a “twenty” is another term for a dub sack.
- QP (quarter-pound): A QP is equivalent to 4 ounces or 112 grams of weed. This is a considerable amount typically used for bulk purchases or resale.
Knowing these terms for weed amounts will help you effectively communicate with others in the cannabis community and make informed purchasing decisions.
Marijuana Quality Slang
When discussing cannabis, you may come across numerous slang terms that refer to the quality of the plant or product.
Understanding this lingo can help you navigate the wide variety of marijuana strains and products available.
Chronic and dank are often used to describe high-quality marijuana. Chronic is believed to be derived from the term “hydroponic,” referring to the growing method, while dank refers to the moisture level in high-quality weed.
These terms imply potent and desirable cannabis.
On the other hand, ditch weed and Bobby brown are used to identify low-quality cannabis.
Ditch weed is generally considered wild, unregulated marijuana with low THC levels, often found growing near roadsides.
Bobby brown is a term for low-grade, less effective marijuana, lacking the flavor and potency of its higher-quality counterparts.
Sinsemilla is a term for seedless female cannabis plants that have been deliberately prevented from being pollinated.
This results in higher THC concentrations and, in turn, more potent effects. Due to this, sinsemilla is often considered high-quality marijuana.
In terms of smell, the slang term skunk references marijuana with a very potent and pungent aroma, often linked to its high levels of terpenes and THC.
This strong odor is typically associated with good-quality weed.
The color of marijuana is sometimes referred to by its nickname green due to the plant’s natural, visually appealing coloration.
Brighter green hues often indicate a fresher and more potent product.
Fir is another term used to describe strong, potent, and high-quality marijuana.
It’s derived from the shortening and re-spelling of the word “fire,” suggesting that the marijuana in question is on fire (in a positive sense) concerning its quality and potency.
Hash or hashish is a concentrated form of cannabis, usually made from the resin of the plant.
It’s typically considered a higher-quality product due to its increased cannabinoid content and potency.
By familiarizing yourself with these slang terms, you can better understand and discuss the varying quality levels of marijuana within the cannabis community.
Cannabis Industry Terms
When you’re navigating the cannabis world, it’s essential to understand the various terms used within the industry.
Let’s dive into some key terminology.
Bud: The bud is the smokable part of the cannabis plant, often referred to as the “nug” or “flower.” Essentially, it’s the part of the plant that contains the highest concentration of cannabinoids, like THC and CBD. Buds are harvested, dried, and cured before being consumed in various ways, such as smoking, vaping, or cooking.
Nug: As mentioned earlier, a nug is another term for a bud. It’s the small, dense cluster of cannabis flowers that grow on the female plant. Nugs come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, depending on the specific strain of cannabis. They are often covered in sticky resin, which contains the plant’s active compounds, such as THC, CBD, and terpenes.
Flower: Flower is another synonym for bud or nug. It refers to the smokable part of the cannabis plant that has been harvested and is ready for consumption. Cannabis flowers can be found in a wide range of strains, each offering unique flavors, aromas, and effects. When purchasing cannabis, look for well-trimmed, dense, and fragrant flowers with a healthy amount of trichomes – the tiny, crystal-like structures on the surface of the bud that contain the majority of the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes.
Mota: Mota is simply a slang term for cannabis. It originated in Spanish-speaking countries and has since become a popular term among cannabis enthusiasts across the globe. When someone uses the word mota, they’re usually referring to the whole cannabis plant, but it can also refer to a specific strain or type of cannabis product, like buds, concentrates, or edibles.
Forms Of Marijuana
Joint
A joint is one of the most common and simple ways to consume marijuana.
It’s essentially a rolled cigarette-like form, but instead of tobacco, it contains ground-up cannabis.
To roll a joint, you will need rolling papers and a filter or crutch to provide structural support.
Joints are easy to make and portable, making them a popular choice for many cannabis consumers.
Blunt
A blunt is similar to a joint, but it uses a hollowed-out cigar or a cigarillo to wrap the cannabis instead of regular rolling papers.
The tobacco from the cigar adds a distinct flavor and an extra nicotine kick to the smoke.
Blunts are often larger than joints and have a slower burn rate, making them ideal for sharing during social gatherings.
Spliff
A spliff is a mix between a joint and a cigarette, containing both cannabis and tobacco.
The tobacco content is usually lower than the cannabis content, offering a milder experience than blunts.
Spliffs are popular in Europe, where tobacco is more frequently mixed with cannabis.
The combination of cannabis and tobacco may also help to conserve your stash by using less weed per roll.
Doobie
Doobie is another term for a joint, generally used in a more informal context.
Just like a joint, a doobie consists of ground-up cannabis rolled into a thin cigarette shape using rolling papers.
The primary difference between a joint and a doobie is the name they go by, but both offer the same straightforward smoking experience.
Weed And Drug Culture Slang
As you dive into the world of cannabis culture, you’ll notice that being part of this community means being introduced to a variety of unique terms and practices.
One such term is “stoner,” which refers to someone who frequently consumes marijuana.
While this term is often used casually, it’s worth noting that many individuals who use cannabis do so responsibly and legally, whether for recreational or medical reasons.
A common side effect of consuming cannabis is experiencing what’s known as “the munchies.”
This intense craving for food can affect almost anyone who partakes in smoking or consuming marijuana, regardless of their experience level.
This phenomenon is often viewed humorously within the drug culture, but it can also lead to overconsumption of not-so-healthy snacks.
Hashish And Its Slang
Hashish, often referred to simply as “hash”, is a concentrated form of cannabis made from the resin of the plant.
It comes in various forms and textures, which has led to several slang terms, such as “butter”, “wax”, and “shatter”, depending on the consistency. L
et’s dive into these different types and their corresponding slang terms.
Butter refers to a creamy, smooth hashish. As the name suggests, it has a butter-like texture, which makes it easy to work with and incorporate into joints, pipes, or vaporizers. Butter generally has a lighter color and may be more potent than other types of hash due to its consistency.
Wax is another form of hashish and is slightly different from butter in terms of consistency. As the name implies, it has a waxy texture that makes it conveniently malleable for user preference. Wax is often used as a term to describe a wide range of cannabis concentrates that have a similar appearance and consistency.
Shatter is a glass-like hashish concentrate known for its brittle nature. Typically, it is translucent and breaks easily, hence the name “shatter”. This type of hashish has a higher potency due to the high concentration of cannabinoids contained within.
New Emerging Slang Terms
As the popularity of cannabis grows, so does the ever-evolving list of slang terms used to describe it.
Let’s take a look at some of the newest and most popular slang words making the rounds today.
Bud is a term that’s been around for a while, but has picked up traction in recent years. It refers to the part of the cannabis plant that people smoke.
You might hear people say they’re looking for some “quality bud” or asking if you have any “fresh buds” to share.
Ding is another word that’s making its way through cannabis culture. Derived from the sound of a bell, “ding” usually signifies something good or positive.
So it’s no surprise that this term has made its way into weed slang. When someone says they have some “ding,” you can expect them to be talking about some pretty impressive cannabis.
The term reefer has been around for quite some time as well. Originally associated with the jazz era, this word is still used today to refer to marijuana.
You might hear someone ask, “Hey, you got any reefer on you?” in a casual conversation.
Moving on, loud is a relatively new slang term for cannabis. It’s thought to have originated from the fact that high-quality weed often has a strong, attention-grabbing smell.
The pungent aroma acts pretty much like a “loud” announcement identifying the presence of good weed.
Remember, slang terms for weed can vary by region and even among groups of friends. These words are just a small sample of the ever-growing list of ways people refer to cannabis.
As new slang terms emerge, don’t be surprised if you hear even more creative and unique words being used to describe marijuana.