Know your stash
Cannabis Glossary
64 cannabis terms explained in plain English, from THCA and terpenes to live rosin, COAs and edible dosing. Tap any term for the full explanation, related terms and a link to the menu.
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C
- CannabinoidsNatural compounds in cannabis that act on the body's endocannabinoid system.
- CaryophyllenePeppery and spicy. It's unusual because it also acts on cannabinoid (CB2) receptors.
- CBDA non-intoxicating cannabinoid. It can soften some of THC's effects.
- CBGA non-intoxicating "parent" cannabinoid that other cannabinoids form from.
- CBNA cannabinoid that forms as THC ages and breaks down. It's often marketed for nighttime use, but the evidence for that is limited.
- CO2 extractionUses pressurized carbon dioxide as the solvent. It's common for vapes.
- COA (Certificate of Analysis)A lab report on a product. It shows potency (THC, CBD and so on) and screening for pesticides, heavy metals, microbes and residual solvents. Ask staff to see it, or scan the QR code on the package if there is one.
- Concentrate (extract)A product that pulls cannabinoids and terpenes out of the plant, so it's much stronger than flower.
- CureSlowly drying and aging flower to improve its smell, taste and smoothness.
- Cured resinA concentrate made from dried and cured plant material.
D
- DabA small amount of concentrate vaporized on a hot surface (a rig, e-rig or nail).
- Decarboxylation (decarb)Heating cannabis to convert THCA into active THC. It's why raw flower isn't intoxicating if eaten.
- Delta-8 THCA close relative of delta-9. It's usually made from CBD in a lab and is generally reported as milder.
- Delta-9 THC (THC)The main intoxicating compound in cannabis.
- Diamonds & sauceTHCA crystals ("diamonds") sitting in a terpene-rich liquid ("sauce").
- Disposable vape (all-in-one)An all-in-one vape you use until it's empty, with no charging or refilling.
- DistillateA highly refined, nearly flavorless oil of mostly THC. It's common in carts and edibles, and flavor is often added back.
E
- EdiblesFoods or drinks with cannabis, such as gummies, chocolates or beverages.
- Eighth (3.5 g)One-eighth of an ounce of flower, or 3.5 grams. The most common flower size.
- Entourage effectThe idea that cannabinoids and terpenes work better together. It's widely discussed, but not fully proven.
- Ethanol extractionUses food-grade alcohol. It's common for distillate and tinctures.
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H
- Harvest / pack dateWhen the product was harvested or packaged. Fresher usually means better aroma and flavor.
- Hash / bubble hashCollected trichomes, separated by hand, by sifting (dry sift) or with ice water.
- Hydrocarbon extraction (BHO/PHO)Butane or propane is used in a closed-loop system to dissolve cannabinoids and terpenes. The solvent is then purged out. This method is used for shatter, badder, live resin and diamonds. Licensed labs test for residual solvents.
I
- Indica / Sativa / HybridTraditional labels based on plant shape and origin. They don't reliably predict how a product will feel. The cannabinoid and terpene content tells you more.
- Infused pre-rollA pre-roll with added concentrate (such as distillate, live resin or kief), so it's stronger. Check the label to see what was added.
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L
- LimoneneCitrus.
- LinaloolFloral, like lavender.
- Live resinA concentrate made from fresh-frozen plants instead of dried ones. It keeps more of the original terpenes and flavor.
- Live rosinRosin pressed from ice-water hash made from fresh-frozen plants. It's considered top-shelf.
- Low-temp dabDabbing at a lower temperature for better flavor and a smoother hit.
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- ShatterA glassy, brittle concentrate.
- SolventlessMade without chemical solvents, using only water, ice, heat, pressure or sifting. Rosin and hash are examples.
- Start low, go slowBegin with a small amount, especially if you're new, and wait before taking more.
- Strain (cultivar)A named genetic variety of cannabis, like "Blue Dream." Each one has its own look, smell and chemical makeup.
- SugarA grainy, wet, crystalline concentrate.
T
- TerpenesAromatic compounds that give each strain its smell and taste. They're also found in many other plants.
- TerpinoleneFresh, herbal and fruity.
- THCAThe non-intoxicating acid form of THC found in raw plants. Heat (smoking, vaping, baking) turns it into delta-9 THC.
- THCPA rare cannabinoid found in trace amounts. Lab studies show it binds strongly to cannabinoid receptors, but research in people is limited.
- TinctureA liquid extract taken under the tongue or added to food.
- ToleranceYour body adjusts with regular use, so the same amount may feel weaker over time.
- TopicalA lotion or balm applied to the skin. It's generally non-intoxicating.
- Total THCThe THC a product can deliver once heated. It's calculated as THCA × 0.877 + delta-9 THC. This is the number on most labels.
- TrichomesThe tiny, sticky, crystal-like glands on the flower. They hold most of the cannabinoids and terpenes.
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Want the bigger picture? Read our guides: live resin vs rosin, how to read a COA and the first-timer guide.
Safety: Effects vary from person to person. Don't drive after use. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Not for use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Educational only, not medical advice. 21+.