Weed Slang

Ten dollars worth of cannabis as sold by Chicago street dealers. The term originates in the eighteenth century when an x-shaped sawhorse was called a sawbuck. Also, the ten-dollar bill was prominently labeled with an X (the Roman numeral for 10). Because of this commonality of X’s, the ten-dollar bill was referred to as a sawbuck and the slang stuck around with Midwestern street dealers.

Common terminology used in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s to describe approximately an ounce of cannabis. While the origin of this term varies, many agree that it comes from the specific style of coffee cans used during the 1960s, the lids of which peeled off like sardine tins. A lid can also be equivalent to about four fingers’ (measured horizontally against the container) worth of weed.

Also known as a quarter, this measures out to approximately 7 grams–exactly one-quarter of an ounce. This is one of the standard quantities cannabis can be sold in, and it usually ranges in price from $50 to $90 depending on location and legality. One Q is enough for about 15 generously sized joints, and depending on your experience level, a bulk purchase like this can last a good while.

The origins of this cannabis slang word are hard to locate, but zone is another term used by dealers to signify an ounce of cannabis flowers. It is possible that this term developed in progression first as an ‘O’ for an ounce, then an ‘O-Zee’, then ‘O-Zone’ and eventually simply to zone. However, this is just speculation.

Literally translated as “speck” or “mote,” this word is Spanish slang that is meant to describe a small amount of cannabis. This term is used in Latin America and many southern states in the US where Mexican immigrants have settled. The term is also lent to a heavy cannabis strain ironically called ‘Motavation’.

“Mids” or “mid” refers to mid-grade cannabis, and has become a popular slang term for anything that is of unremarkable quality. In reference to weed, mids may have some visible trichomes on the flower, as well as a pleasant, fresh smell, but mids are not as dense or pungent as high-quality weed. The quality of what is considered “mids” has increased dramatically in the past few years with legalization and increased popularity of cannabis usage — there is nothing wrong with smoking mids as they can be a great introductory point for new or returning smokers. For seasoned consumers, though, “fire” (exceptionally high-quality cannabis) is usually preferred.

Cannabis has been used medically for centuries across hundreds of different cultures. In adult-use states, the term Medical applies to products used by patients rather than recreationally. With unique anti-inflammatory properties, cannabis and CBD products have been used by patients to treat pain, swelling, anxiety, insomnia, appetite loss and much more.

A play on words deriving from a literal translation of the Spanish word “marijuana.” It’s a common nickname for weed, and it especially became popular due to Rick James’ 1978 hit of the same title, in which he proclaims to be in love with a woman (aptly called Mary Jane) who always knows how to make him feel better. As the song says, cannabis can be used to relieve depression and anxiety symptoms, and it’s also perfect for when you just want a nice, relaxing time.

Consumers who prefer edibles to other types of consumption call themselves cannivores. A cannivore may consume edibles exclusively or occasionally, and it can be out of preference or necessity. From the sweets sold at cannabis storefronts to full-on meals made using flower and concentrates, edibles of all kinds allow users with asthma or other lung problems to medicate without putting their health at risk in the process.

Secondhand smoke, inhaled either from someone’s lit cannabis or as another has exhaled it. Lengthy exposure to down smoke in an unventilated room (also known as hotboxing) can result in a contact high, but it will not be as strong as one achieved through direct consumption. However, it’s not possible to get high or test positive for THC from catching a whiff of someone’s joint, or from being with a smoker in a ventilated room.

When any prepared quantity of cannabis has been smoked through, that cannabis is said to be “cashed.” While the origins of this term are quite difficult to pin down, it seems to be derived from “cashed out,” a phrase signaling the end of someone’s participation in (usually) a gambling game. A cashed bowl is full of ash and sticky resin leftovers, which should be promptly cleaned out of the bowl before repacking.

When a person is high and drunk at the same time they are said to be “crossfaded.” The depressant nature of alcohol combined with the psychoactive effects of THC is so different that they lead many people to feel strange as their brain tries to combine the two unique sensations. As fun as this may be, it’s important to never take it too far unless you want to regret it in the morning, oftentimes crossfades end in vomiting. Always intoxicate responsibly!