You walked into a dispensary, told the budtender you wanted something relaxing, and they asked if you preferred an indica-dominant hybrid with high myrcene content and a balanced cannabinoid profile or a live resin cart with terpene sauce. You nodded. You had no idea what you agreed to. That experience is more common than anyone in the cannabis industry likes to admit, and the vocabulary gap it represents is something this glossary is designed to close permanently.
Here are 100 cannabis terms, defined clearly and honestly, organized from the most fundamental to the more technical. Bookmark this page. Come back to it whenever someone in a dispensary uses a word that does not make sense yet.
Quick Answer: The Most Important Cannabis Terms to Know
The terms that matter most for everyday cannabis purchasing decisions are cannabinoids (THC, CBD, CBN, CBG), terpenes (the compounds that determine flavor and effect profile), the difference between flower, concentrate, and extract, understanding what a Certificate of Analysis tells you, and the basic distinction between indica, sativa, and hybrid as they apply to commercial products versus their botanical meaning.
A
Aeroponics
A cannabis cultivation method where plants are grown with roots suspended in air and nourished by nutrient mist rather than soil. Produces faster growth and larger yields than traditional growing methods but requires precise environmental control.
Anandamide
The body’s naturally produced endocannabinoid sometimes called the bliss molecule. THC mimics anandamide by binding to the same CB1 receptors. Anandamide is involved in mood regulation, appetite, memory, and pain perception.
Autoflowering
A type of cannabis plant that flowers based on age rather than light cycle. Autoflowering plants are typically smaller, faster to harvest, and easier to grow than photoperiod plants. Popular with home growers due to their forgiving nature.
B
Badder / Batter
A cannabis concentrate with a soft, creamy consistency similar to cake batter. Produced through whipping concentrates during the extraction process. High in terpenes and typically more flavorful than harder concentrates like shatter.
Bhang
A traditional preparation of cannabis originating in India where leaves and flowers are ground into a paste and mixed with milk or food. Used in Hindu religious practice and one of the oldest documented forms of cannabis consumption.
BHO (Butane Hash Oil)
Cannabis concentrate extracted using butane as the solvent. The resulting oil is purged of residual butane and can be processed into wax, shatter, budder, or other consistencies. One of the most common extraction methods for concentrates sold in dispensaries.
Bioavailability
The percentage of a consumed substance that actually reaches the bloodstream and produces an effect. Inhaled cannabis has high bioavailability (30 to 50 percent) because it bypasses the digestive system. Oral cannabis has lower bioavailability (5 to 20 percent) due to first-pass metabolism in the liver.
Bong
A water pipe used to smoke cannabis. Water cools and partially filters smoke before inhalation. Bongs deliver larger amounts of smoke per hit than pipes or joints and are popular for their smooth hit and efficiency.
Bowl
The part of a pipe or bong where cannabis flower is placed for smoking. Also used as a unit of measurement: a bowl refers to the amount of cannabis that fills the bowl of a pipe for one session.
Broad Spectrum CBD
A CBD product that contains multiple cannabinoids and terpenes from the hemp plant but has had THC removed through additional processing. Offers more of the entourage effect than CBD isolate while minimizing THC exposure for drug testing concerns.
Budtender
A dispensary sales associate who advises customers on cannabis products. Quality budtenders have genuine product knowledge and help customers select products based on their goals, experience level, and preferences. The cannabis equivalent of a sommelier or pharmacist.
C
Cannabidiol (CBD)
The second most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis after THC. Non-psychoactive. Associated with anxiety reduction, anti-inflammatory effects, and anticonvulsant properties. FDA-approved as Epidiolex for certain epilepsy syndromes. Available in hemp-derived products without a prescription in most states.
Cannabigerol (CBG)
Often called the mother cannabinoid because THC and CBD both develop from CBGa, the acidic precursor form of CBG. Has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Being studied for potential applications in inflammatory bowel disease and neurodegeneration. Available in hemp-derived products.
Cannabinoid
Any compound that interacts with the cannabinoid receptors of the endocannabinoid system. The cannabis plant contains over 100 known cannabinoids. THC and CBD are the most studied. Cannabinoids can also be produced by the human body (endocannabinoids like anandamide) or synthesized in a laboratory.
Cannabinol (CBN)
A mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that forms as THC oxidizes over time. Found in higher concentrations in aged cannabis. Associated with sedating effects and increasingly popular in sleep-specific products. Combined with THC, CBN appears to enhance sedation more than either compound alone.
Cannabis
The genus of flowering plants in the family Cannabaceae. Includes Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis, though the scientific consensus on whether these are truly separate species or subspecies is unsettled. Under US federal law, cannabis with more than 0.3 percent THC is classified as marijuana and remains Schedule I. Cannabis with 0.3 percent THC or less is classified as hemp and is federally legal.
Carb Cap
A tool used in dabbing that covers the nail or banger after concentrate is applied. Restricts airflow, lowers air pressure inside the banger, and allows lower-temperature vaporization that preserves terpenes and flavor.
CB1 Receptor
The cannabinoid receptor found primarily in the brain and central nervous system. THC binds to CB1 receptors, which produces the psychoactive effects of cannabis. CB1 receptors are also involved in pain processing, memory, and motor control.
CB2 Receptor
The cannabinoid receptor found primarily in the immune system and peripheral tissues. CBD and other non-psychoactive cannabinoids interact with CB2 receptors. CB2 activity is associated with anti-inflammatory effects. Relevant to cannabis applications in autoimmune conditions and inflammatory diseases.
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
A lab report from an accredited third-party testing laboratory that confirms the cannabinoid content, terpene profile, and safety testing results (pesticides, heavy metals, residual solvents, microbial contamination) for a specific batch of cannabis or hemp product. Every reputable cannabis product should have a batch-specific COA available for verification.
Concentrate
Any cannabis product produced by extracting cannabinoids and terpenes from plant material, removing much of the plant matter and resulting in a highly potent product. Includes wax, shatter, live resin, rosin, distillate, hash, and kief. Concentrates typically test between 60 and 90 percent THC compared to 15 to 30 percent in flower.
Crumble
A dry, crumbly cannabis concentrate that breaks apart easily when handled. Produced through low-temperature purging of BHO. Easy to handle and dose. Strong flavor profile preserved by the gentle extraction process.
D
Dab / Dabbing
The act of vaporizing a cannabis concentrate on a heated surface (nail or banger) and inhaling the resulting vapor. Produces significantly more intense effects than smoking flower due to the high concentration of THC in concentrates. Requires a dab rig, a torch or e-nail, and a tool for handling the concentrate.
Decarboxylation
The process of applying heat to cannabis to convert THCA (non-psychoactive) into THC (psychoactive) and CBDA into CBD. Occurs naturally when cannabis is smoked or vaporized. Required when making edibles from raw cannabis flower, typically done by baking flower at 240 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 to 45 minutes before infusion.
Delta-8 THC
A naturally occurring cannabinoid in cannabis that also can be produced from hemp-derived CBD through isomerization. Produces psychoactive effects described as milder than Delta-9 THC with a more sedating profile. Legal status varies by state. Federally ambiguous under the 2018 Farm Bill.
Delta-9 THC
The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Most commonly referred to simply as THC. Produces euphoria, altered sensory perception, appetite stimulation, and in higher doses can produce anxiety. The compound that determines whether a cannabis plant is legally hemp or marijuana under federal law.
Dispensary
A licensed retail establishment where cannabis products are sold to adults or medical patients. May be adult-use (recreational), medical-only, or dual-use depending on state law. Every state with legal cannabis has its own dispensary licensing requirements and regulations.
Distillate
A highly refined cannabis extract that has been purified through a distillation process to isolate specific cannabinoids, typically THC or CBD, to very high concentrations of 90 percent or more. Almost completely odorless and tasteless without added terpenes. Commonly used in vape cartridges and edibles because of its consistency and potency.
Dugout
A compact wooden or metal case that holds both a small stash of cannabis and a one-hitter pipe in separate compartments. One of the most discreet and portable cannabis accessories available.
E
Edible
Any food or beverage product infused with cannabis cannabinoids. Takes 30 minutes to 2 hours to produce effects because the cannabis must be digested and processed by the liver, which converts THC to 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent form that produces a longer-lasting, body-focused effect. The most common cause of cannabis overconsumption due to delayed onset.
Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
The biological system of receptors (CB1 and CB2), naturally produced endocannabinoids (anandamide and 2-AG), and metabolic enzymes found throughout the human body. The ECS regulates multiple physiological processes including mood, pain, appetite, memory, immune function, and sleep. Plant-derived cannabinoids interact with this system to produce their therapeutic and psychoactive effects.
Entourage Effect
The theory, supported by growing research, that the various cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in cannabis work together synergistically to produce effects greater than any single compound alone. The entourage effect is the primary argument for full-spectrum products over CBD isolate and for whole-plant medicine over synthetic cannabinoid medications.
Extract
A cannabis product produced by using a solvent (butane, CO2, ethanol) or physical process (heat and pressure) to separate cannabinoids and terpenes from plant material. All concentrates are extracts but not all extracts are concentrates in the sense of the term as used for dabbing products.
F
Flower
The harvested, dried, and cured reproductive part of the female cannabis plant where trichomes (resin glands containing cannabinoids and terpenes) are most concentrated. The most traditional form of cannabis consumption. Sold by weight at dispensaries, typically in eighths (3.5 grams), quarters (7 grams), half ounces (14 grams), and ounces (28 grams).
Full Spectrum
A CBD or hemp product that contains the full range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds naturally present in the cannabis plant, including trace amounts of THC (at or below 0.3 percent for hemp-derived products). Generally considered more therapeutically effective than isolate products due to the entourage effect.
G
Grinder
A device used to break cannabis flower into smaller, more uniform pieces for smoking or vaporizing. Quality four-piece grinders have a kief-catching bottom chamber that collects trichomes over time. One of the most frequently gifted cannabis accessories.
H
Hash / Hashish
One of the oldest cannabis concentrates, produced by compressing and heating collected trichomes (kief) into a solid block or ball. Common in Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian cannabis traditions for centuries. Produces a distinctive earthy, spiced flavor profile different from modern concentrates.
Hemp
Cannabis sativa plants containing 0.3 percent or less Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis, as defined by the 2018 Farm Bill. Federally legal to cultivate, process, and sell hemp-derived products. Used for CBD products, industrial fiber, food products from seeds, and increasingly for other cannabinoid products.
HHC (Hexahydrocannabinol)
A hydrogenated form of THC produced commercially through chemical conversion. More stable than THC due to the hydrogenation process. Produces psychoactive effects described as similar to but slightly milder than Delta-9 THC. Legal status varies by state.
I
Indica
Originally a botanical classification for cannabis plants from the Hindu Kush mountain region characterized by short, broad leaves and dense buds. In commercial cannabis marketing, indica is associated with relaxing, sedating, body-focused effects. The scientific validity of consistent indica versus sativa effect differences based on plant morphology is disputed; terpene profiles are more reliable predictors of effects than indica versus sativa labeling.
ISO 17025
The international standard for testing and calibration laboratories. Cannabis testing labs should hold this accreditation to ensure their results are reliable. When verifying a COA, checking that the issuing laboratory holds ISO 17025 accreditation is one of the most important quality indicators.
J
Joint
Cannabis rolled in thin rolling papers for smoking. One of the most universal forms of cannabis consumption globally. Quality rolling paper materials include rice paper, hemp paper, and wood pulp. Unbleached papers are preferred by health-conscious smokers.
K
Kief
The collection of trichomes that fall from cannabis flower during grinding. Kief accumulates in the bottom chamber of a quality four-piece grinder. Significantly more potent than flower, typically testing at 40 to 60 percent THC. Can be pressed into hash, sprinkled on top of bowls, or used in cooking after decarboxylation.
L
Linalool
A terpene found in cannabis, lavender, and other plants. Associated with calming, anti-anxiety, and sedating effects. One of the most studied cannabis terpenes for therapeutic applications. Products high in linalool are often described as floral and recommended for anxiety and sleep.
Live Resin
A cannabis concentrate made from freshly frozen plant material rather than dried and cured flower. The freezing process preserves a significantly higher terpene content than conventional extraction methods, resulting in a more flavorful and aromatic product. Considered premium by most cannabis enthusiasts.
Live Rosin
A solventless concentrate made by applying heat and pressure to fresh-frozen cannabis rather than using chemical solvents. Considered the cleanest and most artisanal concentrate format. Commands premium prices because of the labor intensity and lower yields compared to solvent-based extraction.
M
Medical Cannabis
Cannabis used for therapeutic purposes under the recommendation of a licensed physician. Available in states with medical cannabis programs to patients with qualifying conditions. Medical patients often pay lower taxes, have higher possession limits, and in some states can grow their own cannabis even when recreational home cultivation is restricted.
Moon Rock
A cannabis product made by coating a cannabis bud in cannabis oil and then rolling it in kief. Extremely potent. Typically smoked in a glass pipe rather than rolled because the oil makes rolling difficult. Often called the caviar of cannabis products.
Myrcene
The most abundant terpene in most cannabis varieties. Associated with earthy, musky aromas similar to hops and mango. Believed to enhance THC absorption and contribute to the sedating effects commonly associated with indica-dominant strains. Found in high concentrations in many sleep-focused cannabis products.
N
Nug
A single intact bud of cannabis flower, typically a smaller piece broken off from a larger bud. Quality nugs are dense, covered in trichomes, and have a distinct aroma. A common colloquial term used by consumers and budtenders alike.
O
One-Hitter
A small, narrow pipe designed to hold enough cannabis for a single inhalation. Discreet, portable, and efficient. Allows for precise dose control, making it popular with both medical users and recreational users who prefer measured consumption.
P
Pre-Roll
A cannabis joint that has been rolled and packaged by a cannabis company or dispensary. Convenient for consumers who do not want to roll their own. Quality varies significantly: premium pre-rolls use whole flower while lower-quality versions use shake and trim. Always check what the pre-roll is made from before purchasing.
R
Rosin
A solventless cannabis concentrate produced by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flower, hash, or kief using a rosin press. No solvents involved in production, making it one of the cleanest concentrate options. Preserves terpenes well. Can be made at home with a hair straightener and parchment paper in small quantities.
S
Sativa
Originally a botanical classification for tall cannabis plants with narrow leaves historically grown in equatorial regions. In commercial cannabis marketing, sativa is associated with uplifting, energizing, cerebral effects. As with indica, the scientific basis for consistent sativa-specific effects independent of terpene profile is disputed. The labels are useful heuristics but not reliable predictors across all products.
Shake
Small pieces of cannabis flower and trichomes that accumulate at the bottom of a storage bag or jar. Lower quality than whole buds but still functional for rolling or cooking. Often sold at a discount. Some dispensaries use shake to fill pre-rolls rather than whole flower.
Shatter
A cannabis concentrate with a glassy, brittle consistency that breaks apart like glass. Produced through BHO extraction followed by gentle heating. High potency, clean flavor. Requires a dab rig or vaporizer for consumption. One of the most recognizable concentrate formats.
Sublingual
Administration method where a substance is held under the tongue for absorption through the mucous membrane. Sublingual cannabis tinctures produce effects faster than swallowed edibles (15 to 30 minutes versus 30 to 120 minutes) because they partially bypass first-pass liver metabolism. Allows for more precise dosing than inhaled cannabis.
T
Terpene
Aromatic compounds produced by cannabis and many other plants that contribute to flavor, aroma, and therapeutic effects. Cannabis contains over 150 identified terpenes. The major cannabis terpenes include myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene, linalool, pinene, and terpinolene. Terpene profiles are increasingly considered more important than indica versus sativa labels for predicting the character of a cannabis experience.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Produces euphoria, altered sensory perception, appetite stimulation, pain relief, and in high doses can produce anxiety and paranoia. THC content is the primary legal distinction between hemp (0.3 percent or less) and marijuana (above 0.3 percent) under US federal law.
THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)
The non-psychoactive precursor to THC found in raw cannabis. Converts to THC through decarboxylation (heat). THCA flower sold as hemp can be technically compliant with the 0.3 percent Delta-9 THC threshold while converting to significant THC when smoked. This has created significant legal controversy around so-called legal hemp flower.
THC-COOH
The primary metabolite produced when the body breaks down THC. Fat-soluble, stored in fat cells, and detected in urine drug tests. Not psychoactive. Its presence in urine indicates past cannabis use but says nothing about current impairment. The compound that standard drug tests detect, not THC itself.
Tincture
A liquid cannabis extract, typically in an alcohol or oil base, taken by placing drops under the tongue. Allows for precise dosing, faster onset than edibles, and discreet consumption without smoking. One of the oldest methods of cannabis medicine preparation.
Topical
A cannabis-infused product applied directly to the skin, including creams, balms, lotions, and salves. Most topicals do not produce psychoactive effects because cannabinoids do not penetrate deeply enough to reach the bloodstream in meaningful quantities. Used for localized pain, inflammation, and skin conditions.
Trichome
The tiny, hair-like resin glands on cannabis flower where cannabinoids and terpenes are produced and stored. Visible as a frosty coating on quality cannabis buds. Trichome density and maturity are key indicators of cannabis quality and potency. When trichomes are broken off from flower, they become kief.
V
Vaporizer / Vape
A device that heats cannabis to a temperature that vaporizes cannabinoids and terpenes without combustion, producing vapor rather than smoke. Available for flower, concentrates, and oil cartridges. Generally considered less harmful to respiratory health than smoking because combustion byproducts are eliminated.
W
Wax
A cannabis concentrate with a soft, waxy consistency. Easier to handle than shatter. Produced through BHO extraction. High potency. One of the most common concentrate types available in dispensaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between indica and sativa effects?
Indica is marketed as relaxing and body-focused. Sativa is marketed as energizing and cerebral. Scientifically, terpene profiles are more reliable predictors of effects than the indica versus sativa classification. Use terpene information rather than just the strain type when selecting products.
What does full spectrum mean on a CBD product?
Full spectrum means the product contains the full range of cannabinoids and terpenes from the hemp plant including trace amounts of THC at or below 0.3 percent. More therapeutically complete than CBD isolate due to the entourage effect.
What is the difference between live resin and regular concentrate?
Live resin is made from freshly frozen plant material, preserving significantly more terpenes than concentrates made from dried and cured cannabis. More flavorful and aromatic. Considered premium quality and priced accordingly.
Author: Ganjly Staff covers cannabis consumer education and practical guides.
Related: Read Ganjly’s guides to cannabis terpenes, what is THC, and how to read a COA.
