The long and colourful history of cannabis goes as far back as 2800 BC. The father of Chinese medicine and agriculture, Emperor Shen Nung, listed an array of health benefits of weed in his pharmacopeia. Over time, different cultures and generations have used different names for this plant. Each slang word reflects the evolution of cannabis use, societal attitudes, and the plant’s regional and cultural influence. As a result, today, we have a long list of slang terms widely used for cannabis.
The Roots of Cannabis Slang
The use of slang for cannabis began as a way for users to communicate discreetly, especially when cannabis was illegal in many parts of the world. The plant has been used for centuries, with references to its psychoactive properties dating back to ancient times. However, as its popularity grew, so did the need for code words and slang to avoid drawing unwanted attention. Today, many of these terms have become commonplace, often used casually in conversation or even in advertising. In the context of pot delivery in Toronto, for instance, these slang names are often used in online platforms and dispensaries as a way to make cannabis sound more approachable and less formal.
Common Slang Names for Cannabis
Weed
Perhaps the most ubiquitous slang term, “weed” is a simple and direct way to refer to cannabis. It originated from the association between cannabis and wild plants, which were often seen as unwanted or invasive, much like a weed in a garden. This term is so widely used that it’s almost a universal way of referring to cannabis, no matter where you’re located.
Pot
The term “pot” is often associated with the early 20th century, originating from the Spanish word potación de guaya, which referred to a drink made by steeping cannabis leaves in wine. Over time, the term was shortened to simply “pot” and became an established slang term for cannabis. It is still widely used in Canada and other English-speaking countries.
Ganja
“Ganja” has roots in Sanskrit and is widely used in Indian culture. It was introduced to the Western world by Caribbean immigrants, particularly in Jamaica, where cannabis holds cultural and spiritual significance. Over time, it became a popular term in both reggae culture and the broader global cannabis community. The use of “ganja” continues to thrive in places with large Caribbean populations, including parts of Canada.
Mary Jane
“Mary Jane” is a playful and affectionate slang term for cannabis. It likely originated as a direct translation of the Spanish term maria juana, which became associated with cannabis in the early 20th century. Today, the name “Mary Jane” is often used in pop culture, music, and cannabis-related branding, evoking a sense of nostalgia and fun.
Hash
“Hash” is a slang term for hashish, a concentrated form of cannabis made from the resin of the plant. The word comes from the Arabic term ḥashīsh, meaning “grass” or “herb.” Hash has been used for centuries in the Middle East and parts of Asia, and the term is widely understood in the cannabis community today. It refers specifically to a potent and compressed form of cannabis.
Reefer
The term “reefer” was popularized in the early 20th century, mainly through the 1930s propaganda film Reefer Madness, which depicted exaggerated dangers of cannabis use. While the term was once used to describe cannabis in a negative light, it has since been reclaimed and is now used colloquially, especially in reference to cannabis cigarettes or joints.
Kush
“Kush” refers to a specific variety of cannabis that originates from the Hindu Kush mountain range in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Over the years, the term has become synonymous with high-quality cannabis, often used to refer to premium strains of the plant. In Canada, especially in places like Toronto, many dispensaries offer Kush strains, and the name has become a hallmark of potency and flavour.
Bud
“Bud” is a simple and direct term that refers to the flower of the cannabis plant. These parts of the plant are harvested, dried, and consumed. The term “bud” is frequently used in casual conversations and is commonly seen in cannabis dispensaries and packaging. It reflects the natural, plant-based nature of cannabis and is one of the most neutral slang terms in use today.
Skunk
“Skunk” is a term often used to describe strains of cannabis with a particularly strong, pungent smell. The name originates from the skunk animal, whose spray has a similarly intense odour. Skunk strains became popular in the 1980s and 1990s, and the term has remained a staple in cannabis culture, particularly for those who appreciate potent, aromatic varieties.
Shatter
“Shatter” refers to a form of cannabis concentrate that has a glass-like consistency. It is produced through an extraction process using solvents, resulting in a potent and concentrated form of cannabis. The term “shatter” reflects the brittle, glass-like texture of the concentrate, and it has become increasingly popular as cannabis extracts have gained prominence in both recreational and medicinal use.
Regional Influence on Cannabis Slang
While these terms are used widely across English-speaking countries, certain regional variations exist. For example, Canadians often incorporate slang specific to their local culture. In cities like Toronto, cannabis users might also refer to the substance by a variety of names, some of which are unique to their community or the larger Canadian context. The trend of pot delivery in Toronto has also sparked new slang terms as online cannabis delivery services become more popular. Terms like “green rush” have gained traction in the Canadian cannabis market, further influencing the language.
Why Slang Matters
Slang names for cannabis serve several purposes. They offer a way for users to discuss cannabis without fear of judgment or legal repercussions, especially in places where cannabis use has been stigmatized. Slang also reflects the evolving nature of cannabis culture, as more people become familiar with the plant and its effects. In recent years, the growing acceptance and legalization of cannabis in places like Canada have led to the normalization of these slang terms in everyday conversation.
In conclusion, the variety of slang names for cannabis is a testament to the plant’s cultural significance and the creativity of its users. From “weed” and “pot” to “ganja” and “kush,” these terms reflect the diverse and vibrant history of cannabis use, especially in places like Toronto. Whether it’s for recreational use or medical purposes, cannabis terminology will continue to evolve, influenced by culture, geography, and changing social attitudes. For those considering cannabis use or delivery services, understanding these slang terms can make navigating the cannabis world a little easier—and perhaps even a little more fun.