The Cannabis Glossary: 122 Terms, Explained in Plain English

Key terms

11-hydroxy-THC

A potent THC metabolite the liver creates when THC is eaten and digested. It is a key reason edibles can feel more intense and last longer than smoking the same amount.

2018 Farm Bill

The federal law (Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018) that legalized hemp by defining it as cannabis with no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight, removing it from the Controlled Substances Act. It opened the door to the CBD and hemp-derived cannabinoid markets.

420

A number that became cultural shorthand for cannabis and a celebration on April 20 (4/20). It traces to a group of 1970s California high-schoolers who used '4:20' as a meet-up time to search for a rumored cannabis crop.

710

Cannabis shorthand for concentrates and oils, because '710' flipped upside down resembles the word 'OIL.' July 10 (7/10) is an informal 'dab day.'

Adult-Use (Recreational)

Cannabis sold legally to adults (typically 21 and older) without a medical recommendation, in states that have legalized it. Contrasts with medical cannabis programs.

Autoflower

A cannabis plant that flowers automatically as it matures regardless of the light schedule, a trait derived from ruderalis genetics and popular with home growers.

Bioavailability

The proportion of a consumed cannabinoid that actually reaches the bloodstream and has an effect. It varies a lot by method, which is part of why inhaling, eating, and taking sublingual products feel so different.

Biphasic Effect

The pattern in which a low dose of cannabis can produce one effect (such as relaxation) while a high dose produces the opposite (such as anxiety). It is why 'more' is not always 'better.'

Blunt

Cannabis rolled in a tobacco-leaf or cigar wrap rather than rolling paper, which means it also delivers nicotine from the wrap.

Bong

A water pipe that cools and filters cannabis smoke through water before inhalation.

Broad-Spectrum

An extract that keeps a range of cannabinoids and terpenes but has had detectable THC removed. It sits between full-spectrum and isolate.

Bubble Hash

A solventless hash made by agitating cannabis in ice water to break off the trichomes, then filtering them through fine mesh 'bubble bags.'

Bud

Slang for the dense, resin-coated flower clusters of the female cannabis plant, where most cannabinoids and terpenes are concentrated.

Budder

A creamy, whipped cannabis concentrate with a soft, frosting-like consistency, made by agitating an extract during processing.

Budtender

A dispensary employee who helps customers choose products and answers questions about effects, potency, and use, similar to a knowledgeable shop guide.

Calyx

The small, often teardrop-shaped structures that make up a cannabis bud, densely covered in trichomes and rich in cannabinoids.

Cannabaceae

The plant family that includes both cannabis and hops, which is why some cannabis aromas overlap with beer.

Cannabinoid

Any of the chemical compounds, produced by the cannabis plant (phytocannabinoids) or the body (endocannabinoids), that interact with the body's cannabinoid receptors. THC and CBD are the best known of the 100-plus cannabinoids in cannabis.

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)

A condition seen in some long-term, frequent cannabis users involving cycles of severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, often temporarily relieved by hot showers. The only known cure is stopping cannabis use.

Cannabis

The plant genus (Cannabis sativa L.) whose flowers and leaves contain cannabinoids; also the general term for products made from it. In law and culture the same plant is split into 'hemp' (low-THC) and 'marijuana' (higher-THC) based on THC content.

Cannabis Beverage

A drink infused with cannabinoids, ranging from THC seltzers to CBD waters. Many are made for faster, more predictable onset than traditional edibles, though effects still vary by product and person.

Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD)

A diagnosable condition (in the DSM-5) marked by an inability to stop using cannabis despite negative effects on life. The CDC estimates roughly 3 in 10 people who use cannabis develop some degree of cannabis use disorder, with higher risk for those who start before age 18.

Cannabis Withdrawal

A recognized set of symptoms (irritability, sleep trouble, vivid dreams, appetite changes, restlessness) that can follow stopping heavy, regular cannabis use. Symptoms are generally not dangerous and tend to ease within a couple of weeks.

Cartridge (Cart)

A pre-filled container of cannabis oil that attaches to a vape battery. Quality and contents vary widely, which is why a lab report (COA) matters, especially for unregulated or illicit-market carts.

Caryophyllene

A peppery, spicy terpene (beta-caryophyllene) notable because it can directly interact with the body's CB2 cannabinoid receptors, unusual for a terpene.

CB1 Receptor

A cannabinoid receptor concentrated in the brain and nervous system; THC's binding to CB1 is largely responsible for the cannabis high.

CB2 Receptor

A cannabinoid receptor found mainly in the immune system and peripheral tissues, involved in inflammation and immune response.

CBC (Cannabichromene)

A non-intoxicating minor cannabinoid derived from CBGA, studied for possible anti-inflammatory and other effects but far less researched than THC or CBD.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

The most prominent non-intoxicating cannabinoid in cannabis, widely sold in hemp products. It does not produce a high and is the active ingredient in the FDA-approved epilepsy drug Epidiolex.

CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid)

The raw, acidic precursor to CBD found in unheated cannabis, which converts to CBD through decarboxylation.

CBG (Cannabigerol)

A non-intoxicating minor cannabinoid often called the 'mother cannabinoid' because its acidic form, CBGA, is the chemical precursor the plant converts into THCA, CBDA, and CBCA.

CBGA (Cannabigerolic Acid)

The 'mother' acidic cannabinoid the plant produces first, then enzymatically converts into the acidic precursors of THC, CBD, and CBC.

CBN (Cannabinol)

A mildly intoxicating minor cannabinoid that forms as THC ages and degrades, which is why old cannabis has more of it. It is popularly marketed as sedating, though strong human evidence for that is limited.

Chemovar (Chemotype)

A cannabis variety classified by its actual chemical profile (cannabinoids and terpenes) rather than by name or indica/sativa label. Researchers favor chemovar because it predicts effects better than the traditional categories.

COA (Certificate of Analysis)

A lab report from an independent, accredited laboratory showing a product's cannabinoid content and screening for contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, mold, and residual solvents. Checking the COA is the single best way to know what is actually in a product.

Concentrate

Any product made by extracting and concentrating the cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis, resulting in much higher potency than flower. Examples include rosin, resin, wax, shatter, and distillate.

Controlled Substances Act (CSA)

The 1970 federal law that classifies drugs into schedules and governs their legal status. It is the framework under which marijuana is scheduled and hemp is exempted.

Couch Lock

A slang term for the heavy, sedated, 'glued to the couch' feeling some cannabis produces. It is often blamed on certain terpenes or indica varieties, though the cause is not well established scientifically.

Cultivar

The botanically precise term for a cultivated cannabis variety, used more accurately than the marketing word 'strain.'

Cure (Curing)

The post-harvest process of slowly drying and aging cannabis flower in controlled conditions to improve aroma, smoothness, and shelf life. A good cure is a major factor in flower quality.

Dab

A small dose of cannabis concentrate vaporized on a hot surface and inhaled, usually with a dab rig or electronic dab device. Dabs are very potent, so even a small amount delivers a strong dose.

Dab Rig

A specialized water pipe used to vaporize and inhale cannabis concentrates by heating a 'nail' or 'banger' to a controlled temperature.

Decarboxylation

The heat-driven reaction that converts raw acidic cannabinoids (like THCA) into their active forms (like THC). It is why cannabis is smoked, vaped, or baked rather than eaten raw to feel intoxicating effects.

Decriminalization

A policy that removes or reduces criminal penalties for personal cannabis possession (often replacing them with fines), without making sale fully legal or regulated. It is distinct from full legalization, which permits regulated commercial sale.

Delta-10 THC

Another minor, lab-produced THC isomer derived from hemp CBD, marketed as mildly intoxicating. Like delta-8, it rode the post-2018 hemp loophole and is restricted under the 2025 'total THC' federal redefinition.

Delta-8 THC

A THC variant that occurs naturally in only trace amounts and is usually manufactured by chemically converting CBD. It is generally milder than delta-9 THC but still intoxicating, and its legal status tightened sharply under the 2025 federal hemp changes.

Delta-9 THC

The primary intoxicating cannabinoid in cannabis and the specific compound that the federal hemp limit historically measured (no more than 0.3% by dry weight). 'THC' on a label most often refers to delta-9.

Dispensary

A licensed retail store that legally sells cannabis products, either to medical patients, adult-use customers, or both, depending on the jurisdiction.

Distillate

A highly refined concentrate distilled down to nearly pure cannabinoid (often 85-95% THC), typically stripped of terpenes and flavor. It is the common base for many vape cartridges and edibles.

Drug Test (THC)

A screening, usually urine-based, that detects THC metabolites, not impairment. THC can be detectable for days to weeks after use, especially in frequent users, and even some full-spectrum hemp products can trigger a positive.

Dry Weight Basis

The way cannabis THC content is officially measured, after the plant material is dried, so water content does not skew the percentage. The hemp definition is set 'on a dry weight basis.'

Edible

A food or drink product infused with cannabinoids, such as gummies, chocolates, or beverages. Edibles take longer to kick in (often 30 minutes to 2 hours) and last longer than inhaled cannabis, which makes overconsumption easy.

Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

The body's own signaling network of receptors (such as CB1 and CB2), naturally produced cannabinoids, and enzymes that helps regulate mood, appetite, sleep, and pain. Plant cannabinoids produce effects partly by interacting with this system.

Entourage Effect

The theory that cannabis compounds (cannabinoids, terpenes, and others) work together to produce effects greater or different than any one compound alone. It is widely cited in marketing, but rigorous scientific evidence for it remains limited and mixed.

Epidiolex

The first FDA-approved cannabis-derived prescription drug, a purified CBD medicine approved for certain rare, severe seizure disorders. Its approval is why pharmaceutical CBD has a clearer federal status than CBD supplements.

Extract

A concentrate made by pulling cannabinoids and terpenes out of the plant using a method such as solvents, heat, or pressure. All extracts are concentrates, distinguished by how they are made.

First-Pass Metabolism

The process by which swallowed THC is processed by the liver before reaching the bloodstream, converting some into a stronger, longer-lasting compound (11-hydroxy-THC). This is why edibles feel different and last longer than inhaled cannabis.

Flavonoids

A class of plant compounds in cannabis that contribute to color, flavor, and possibly effects, and are found across many fruits and vegetables.

Flower

The dried, cured buds of the female cannabis plant, the most traditional form of cannabis. Also called 'bud' or 'nug,' it can be smoked, vaporized, or processed into other products.

Full-Spectrum

A cannabis or hemp extract that retains the full range of the plant's cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds, including trace THC. Full-spectrum hemp products can contain enough THC to potentially show on a drug test with regular use.

Greening Out

An unpleasant reaction to consuming too much cannabis, with symptoms like nausea, dizziness, sweating, pale skin, and anxiety. It is frightening but generally not life-threatening; the main treatment is rest, hydration, and waiting it out.

Hash (Hashish)

One of the oldest cannabis concentrates, made by collecting and compressing the plant's resin glands (trichomes) into a solid block or paste.

Hemp

Cannabis that meets a legal THC threshold and is regulated as an agricultural commodity rather than a controlled substance. Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is cannabis with no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight.

Hemp vs. Marijuana

Same plant species, different legal buckets defined by THC. Historically the line was 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight; a November 2025 federal law shifts hemp to a stricter 'total THC' standard effective November 12, 2026.

Hemp-Derived Cannabinoid

A cannabinoid product made or converted from hemp, such as much of the CBD, delta-8, and HHC market that grew after the 2018 Farm Bill. A November 2025 federal law sharply restricts intoxicating versions, effective November 12, 2026.

HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol)

A hydrogenated, semi-synthetic cannabinoid made from hemp-derived compounds and sold as a mildly intoxicating alternative. Like other converted hemp cannabinoids, it faces tighter federal limits under the 2025 hemp changes.

Hot (Hot Hemp)

Industry slang for a hemp crop or product that tests above the legal THC limit, making it noncompliant and legally treated as marijuana.

Hybrid

Cannabis bred from a mix of indica and sativa lineage, which today describes nearly all commercial cannabis. Menus label hybrids 'indica-leaning' or 'sativa-leaning,' but the chemical profile predicts effects better than the label.

Indica

A traditional plant-type label popularly associated with relaxing, 'body-heavy' effects. In reality 'indica' poorly predicts effects; a product's cannabinoid and terpene profile (chemovar) matters far more than the indica/sativa label.

Infused

Describes any product (food, drink, oil, topical) that has had cannabinoids added to it. 'Infused pre-rolls,' for example, are joints with concentrate added for extra potency.

Isolate

A purified single cannabinoid, most commonly CBD isolate, with all other plant compounds removed. It contains no THC and no terpenes, so it cannot contribute to any entourage effect.

Joint

Cannabis flower rolled in paper for smoking, the most iconic way to consume cannabis.

Kief

The loose, powdery collection of trichomes (resin glands) that fall off cannabis flower, often gathered in the bottom of a grinder. It is more potent than flower because it is concentrated trichomes.

Landrace

A cannabis variety that developed naturally over generations in a specific geographic region with little human crossbreeding, such as classic Afghani or Thai lines.

Legalization

Making cannabis legal under a given jurisdiction's law, typically with a regulated, licensed market. As of 2025, 24 states plus Washington, D.C. had legalized adult-use (recreational) cannabis, while it remains federally restricted.

Limonene

A citrus-scented terpene found in cannabis and citrus peels, commonly associated with uplifting effects.

Linalool

A floral, lavender-scented terpene found in cannabis and lavender, popularly linked to calming effects.

Live Resin

A concentrate extracted from fresh-frozen cannabis using chemical solvents (like butane), prized for capturing the aromatic terpene profile of the living plant. Unlike live rosin, it is solvent-based.

Live Rosin

A premium solventless concentrate pressed from fresh-frozen cannabis (frozen right after harvest) rather than dried flower, preserving more of the plant's natural terpenes. Made with only ice, water, heat, and pressure, no chemical solvents.

Marijuana

A legal and common term for cannabis with enough THC to be intoxicating. Under U.S. federal law it has historically meant cannabis exceeding the hemp THC limit; many people now prefer 'cannabis' because 'marijuana' carries a loaded history.

Marijuana Rescheduling

The ongoing federal effort to move marijuana from Schedule I to the less-restrictive Schedule III. As of mid-2026 it is partially done (FDA-approved and state-licensed medical products) with a hearing on broader rescheduling scheduled to begin June 29, 2026.

Medical Cannabis

Cannabis used to treat a health condition under a state's medical program, usually requiring a qualifying condition and a recommendation or card. Far more states allow medical use than recreational use.

Microdose

Taking a very small, controlled amount of cannabis (often a few milligrams of THC) aiming for subtle effects without strong intoxication. A common starting point for edibles is around 2.5 mg of THC.

Milligram (mg) Dosing

The standard way edibles and tinctures are measured, e.g., a 10 mg THC gummy. A low or beginner dose is often considered around 2.5 mg of THC, with 'start low and go slow' the common guidance.

Myrcene

A common cannabis terpene with an earthy, musky, herbal aroma also found in hops and mango. It is often associated with relaxing 'couch lock' effects, an association that is popular but not firmly proven.

Nanoemulsion

A formulation technique that breaks cannabinoid oil into tiny droplets so it mixes into water and may be absorbed faster, commonly used in cannabis beverages and fast-acting edibles.

Onset

How long it takes to feel cannabis after consuming it. Inhaled cannabis acts within minutes; edibles can take 30 minutes to 2 hours, which is why patience prevents accidental overconsumption.

Phenotype

The observable traits (appearance, aroma, growth pattern) a particular cannabis plant expresses from its genetics and environment. Growers select standout phenotypes, or 'phenos,' to reproduce.

Phytocannabinoid

A cannabinoid produced by a plant, as opposed to one made by the body (endocannabinoid) or in a lab (synthetic). THC, CBD, CBG, and CBN are all phytocannabinoids.

Pinene

A pine-scented terpene present in cannabis, pine needles, and rosemary, one of the most widespread terpenes in nature.

Pistil

The hair-like strands on a cannabis flower (often orange or red when mature) that are part of the plant's reproductive anatomy and a visual cue of ripeness.

Potency

How much active cannabinoid a product contains, usually expressed as a percentage (flower, concentrates) or in milligrams (edibles, tinctures). Higher potency means it is easier to take too much.

Pre-roll

A ready-made cannabis joint sold pre-rolled and packaged, convenient for buyers who do not roll their own.

Psychoactive vs. Intoxicating

'Psychoactive' means a substance affects the mind in any way; 'intoxicating' specifically means it impairs and produces a high. CBD is technically psychoactive (it can affect mood) but is non-intoxicating, while THC is both.

Reefer

Dated slang for cannabis, most associated with the mid-20th-century era and the propaganda film 'Reefer Madness.' Largely used today ironically or historically.

REM Rebound

The surge of vivid, intense dreams many people report after quitting cannabis, thought to occur because regular THC use suppresses REM sleep and the brain 'catches up' once it stops.

Resin (Plant Resin)

The sticky substance produced in cannabis trichomes that contains the cannabinoids and terpenes. It is the raw material behind most concentrates, and the root of words like 'live resin.'

Rosin

A solventless concentrate made by pressing cannabis with heat and pressure to squeeze out the resin, with no chemical solvents involved.

Ruderalis

A hardy, low-THC cannabis type known for 'autoflowering' (flowering based on age rather than light cycle). Breeders use it to add autoflowering traits to other varieties.

Sativa

A traditional plant-type label popularly associated with energizing, 'heady' effects. Like 'indica,' it is loose shopping shorthand rather than a reliable predictor of how a product will feel.

Schedule I

The most restrictive U.S. federal drug category, defined as having high abuse potential and no accepted medical use. As of mid-2026, recreational and most bulk marijuana remain Schedule I, even as a reclassification process is underway.

Schedule III

A less restrictive federal drug category for substances with accepted medical uses and lower abuse potential. In April 2026 the federal government placed FDA-approved marijuana products and state-licensed medical marijuana into Schedule III, while other cannabis stayed in Schedule I pending further proceedings.

Shatter

A glassy, brittle, translucent cannabis concentrate that snaps like hard candy, typically made with solvent extraction.

Solventless

Extraction methods that use only physical means such as ice, water, heat, and pressure, rather than chemical solvents, to separate cannabinoids and terpenes. Rosin and bubble hash are solventless; distillate and live resin are not.

Stash

Slang for a personal supply of cannabis, and by extension a 'stash jar' or 'stash box' used to store it.

Strain

The common name for a particular cannabis variety (e.g., 'Blue Dream'). Strain names are not standardized or regulated, so the same name can vary widely between growers.

Sublingual

A method of taking cannabis by holding a tincture or strip under the tongue so cannabinoids absorb through the tissue, generally giving faster onset than swallowed edibles.

Synthetic Cannabinoid

Lab-made chemicals designed to mimic THC, including dangerous illicit products sometimes sold as 'K2' or 'Spice.' These are chemically different from plant cannabinoids and can cause severe, unpredictable harm.

Terpene Profile

The specific mix and concentration of terpenes in a cannabis product, often listed on a COA. It shapes aroma and flavor and is increasingly used to describe products instead of just indica/sativa labels.

Terpenes

The aromatic oils that give cannabis (and many plants) their distinctive smells, such as pine, citrus, or fuel. Beyond aroma, they are theorized to shape a product's effects, though that science is still developing.

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)

The main intoxicating cannabinoid in cannabis, responsible for the 'high.' When unspecified, 'THC' usually means delta-9 THC, the most abundant psychoactive form.

THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)

The raw, non-intoxicating acidic form of THC found in fresh, unheated cannabis. It converts to intoxicating THC when heated through decarboxylation (smoking, vaping, or cooking).

THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)

A minor cannabinoid structurally similar to THC, intoxicating mainly at higher doses, often discussed for possible appetite-related effects. Evidence in humans remains preliminary.

The Munchies

The increased appetite that often follows cannabis use, driven by THC's effect on appetite-regulating signals in the brain.

Tincture

A liquid cannabis extract, usually alcohol- or oil-based, taken by dropper under the tongue or added to food. Sublingual use can take effect faster than swallowed edibles.

Tolerance

The body's adaptation to regular cannabis use, so that more is needed over time to feel the same effect. Tolerance can build quickly with frequent THC use and typically declines during a break.

Tolerance Break (T-Break)

A deliberate pause from cannabis to let tolerance reset, so that smaller amounts feel effective again. There is no fixed required length; people commonly try anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

Topical

A cannabis-infused cream, balm, lotion, or patch applied to the skin, typically used for localized comfort. Most topicals are not intoxicating because the cannabinoids generally do not reach the bloodstream.

Total THC

A measurement that accounts for both active THC and the THC that raw THCA will become once heated, typically calculated as delta-9 THC plus about 0.877 times the THCA. The 2025 federal hemp law shifts the hemp standard to this 'total THC' metric.

Trichome

The tiny, frosty, mushroom-shaped resin glands on cannabis flowers and leaves that produce and store most of the plant's cannabinoids and terpenes. The 'frosty' look prized in good flower is dense trichome coverage.

Vape (Vaporizer)

A device that heats cannabis flower or concentrate enough to release cannabinoids as inhalable vapor without burning the material. Vaping avoids smoke but is not risk-free.

Wax

A soft, opaque, butter- or wax-textured cannabis concentrate, a popular form of dab.

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