This glossary of cannabis terms was created to bridge gaps in the world of cannabis. It explains essential cannabis terms in English, Spanish, and German so people everywhere can share the same language. Cannabis is culture, community, and science.
From the way we describe flavor and potency to how we talk about genetics and effects, the cannabis terms we use shape the experience. Inside dispensaries, at sessions with friends, or scrolling product reviews online, the vocabulary isn’t just slang — it’s the foundation of knowledge that connects consumers, budtenders, and brands.
Language also carries the movement across borders. A strain name, a terpene profile, or even the word “hash” might mean something different depending on where you’re standing in the world. That’s why it’s important to break these cannabis terms down in a way that’s consistent and accessible.
If you’re shopping at a dispensary, traveling abroad, or simply trying to deepen your understanding of the plant, this guide is designed to help you navigate the culture with confidence.
The Ultimate Guide to Cannabis Terms for Consumers & Budtenders
1. Flower
Definition (English): The dried buds of the cannabis plant. Flower is the most traditional way to consume cannabis, usually smoked in joints, pipes, or bongs.
- Spanish: Flor – La parte seca y fumable de la planta de cannabis.
- German: Blüte – Die getrockneten Blüten der Cannabispflanze, meist geraucht.
2. Pre-Roll
Definition (English): A pre-rolled joint sold ready to smoke. Convenient for beginners or on-the-go consumers who don’t want to roll themselves.
- Spanish: Pre-rolado – Porro ya preparado para fumar.
- German: Vorgefertigter Joint – Fertig gedrehter Joint zum direkten Konsum.
3. Joint
Definition (English): A cannabis cigarette rolled with ground flower and rolling papers. One of the most common ways to consume weed.
- Spanish: Porro / Joint – Cigarrillo de cannabis con papel de liar.
- German: Joint – Cannabis-Zigarette aus Blüten und Papier.
4. Blunt
Definition (English): A cannabis roll wrapped in tobacco leaf or blunt wrap instead of paper. Known for heavier smoke and longer burn time.
- Spanish: Blunt – Cigarro de cannabis envuelto en hoja de tabaco.
- German: Blunt – Mit Tabakblatt oder Wrap gerollter Cannabis-Joint.
5. Hash
Definition (English): A traditional cannabis concentrate made by collecting and compressing trichomes. Famous for potency, flavor, and cultural roots worldwide.
- Spanish: Hachís – Concentrado clásico de tricomas prensados.
- German: Haschisch – Traditionelles Konzentrat aus gepresstem Harz.
6. Kief
Definition (English): The collection of loose trichome crystals from cannabis flower. Often sprinkled on bowls or pressed into hash.
- Spanish: Kief – Cristales de tricomas recolectados del cannabis.
- German: Kief – Gesammelte Trichomkristalle, oft auf Blüten gestreut.
7. Rosin
Definition (English): A solventless concentrate made by pressing cannabis flower, kief, or hash under heat and pressure. Loved for purity and terpene flavor.
- Spanish: Rosin – Extracto sin solventes hecho con calor y presión.
- German: Rosin – Lösungsmittelfreies Extrakt durch Hitze und Druck.
8. Live Rosin
Definition (English): A premium rosin pressed from bubble hash made with fresh-frozen cannabis. Considered one of the cleanest and most flavorful extracts.
- Spanish: Rosin vivo – Rosin hecho con hachís de plantas congeladas frescas.
- German: Live Rosin – Rosin aus frisch gefrorenen Pflanzen, sehr aromatisch.
9. Resin
Definition (English): The sticky substance from cannabis trichomes. In modern markets, “resin” also refers to concentrate products, both cured and live.
- Spanish: Resina – Sustancia pegajosa de tricomas; también se usa para concentrados.
- German: Harz – Klebrige Substanz aus Trichomen, auch als Konzentrat erhältlich.
10. Live Resin
Definition (English): A concentrate made from fresh-frozen cannabis, preserving terpenes and cannabinoids for a stronger flavor and aroma profile.
- Spanish: Resina viva – Concentrado hecho con cannabis congelado al instante.
- German: Live Harz – Konzentrat aus frisch gefrorenen Pflanzen, terpenreich.
11. Dabs
Definition (English): A method of consuming cannabis concentrates by vaporizing them on a hot surface (usually a dab rig) and inhaling. Known for fast, powerful effects.
- Spanish: Dabs – Forma de consumir concentrados de cannabis vaporizándolos en una superficie caliente.
- German: Dabs – Konsum von Cannabis-Konzentraten durch Verdampfen auf einer heißen Oberfläche.
12. Wax
Definition (English): A soft, opaque cannabis concentrate with a waxy texture. Known for strong potency and easy use for dabbing.
- Spanish: Wax – Concentrado de cannabis con textura cerosa y blanda.
- German: Wachs – Weiches, wachsartiges Cannabis-Konzentrat.
13. Shatter
Definition (English): A brittle, glass-like cannabis extract that “shatters” when broken. Popular for its purity and high THC content.
- Spanish: Shatter – Extracto quebradizo y transparente con alto contenido de THC.
- German: Shatter – Glasartiges, zerbrechliches Cannabis-Konzentrat.
14. Crumble
Definition (English): A dry, crumbly concentrate with a honeycomb texture. Easy to handle and smoke, often used in bowls or joints.
- Spanish: Crumble – Concentrado seco y desmenuzable con textura tipo panal.
- German: Crumble – Trockenes, bröckeliges Konzentrat mit Wabenstruktur.
15. Budder
Definition (English): A whipped cannabis concentrate with a creamy, butter-like consistency. Smooth texture makes it easy to dab or spread on flower.
- Spanish: Budder – Concentrado batido con textura cremosa tipo mantequilla.
- German: Budder – Cremiges Cannabis-Konzentrat mit Butterkonsistenz.
16. Sauce
Definition (English): A cannabis concentrate with a liquid, syrup-like consistency, often paired with THC crystals (“diamonds”) for flavor and potency.
- Spanish: Salsa – Extracto espeso y líquido con alto perfil de terpenos.
- German: Sauce – Flüssiges, sirupartiges Konzentrat reich an Terpenen.
17. Diamonds
Definition (English): THC crystals that form during concentrate extraction. Usually combined with terpene-rich sauce for maximum potency and flavor.
- Spanish: Diamantes – Cristales de THC concentrados, potentes y puros.
- German: Diamanten – Hochkonzentrierte THC-Kristalle.
18. Cartridge
Definition (English): A small pre-filled container of cannabis oil used with vape pens. Known for portability and discretion.
- Spanish: Cartucho – Contenedor pequeño con aceite de cannabis para vaporizadores.
- German: Kartusche – Vorgefüllte Patrone mit Cannabisöl für Vape-Pens.
19. Distillate
Definition (English): A highly refined cannabis oil that isolates THC or CBD. Often used in cartridges, edibles, and topicals.
- Spanish: Destilado – Aceite de cannabis muy refinado con THC o CBD puro.
- German: Destillat – Stark gereinigtes Cannabisöl mit isolierten Cannabinoiden.
20. Full-Spectrum Oil
Definition (English): Cannabis oil that preserves the full range of cannabinoids and terpenes for a more natural, “entourage effect” experience.
- Spanish: Aceite de espectro completo – Aceite que mantiene todos los cannabinoides y terpenos.
- German: Vollspektrum-Öl – Öl mit vollständigem Profil von Cannabinoiden und Terpenen.
21. Strain
Definition (English): A specific variety of cannabis with unique genetics, effects, and flavor. Examples include classics like OG Kush, Sour Diesel, and Gelato.
- Spanish: Cepa – Variedad específica de cannabis con efectos y sabores únicos.
- German: Sorte – Bestimmte Cannabissorte mit eigenen Eigenschaften.
22. Genetics
Definition (English): The hereditary makeup of a cannabis plant. Genetics determine terpene profile, cannabinoid content, yield, and growth style.
- Spanish: Genética – Composición hereditaria que define características de la planta.
- German: Genetik – Erbgut, das Wirkung, Aroma und Ertrag bestimmt.
23. Indica
Definition (English): Cannabis type often linked with relaxing, sedative body effects. Typically chosen for nighttime use.
- Spanish: Índica – Conocida por efectos calmantes y físicos.
- German: Indica – Meist mit entspannender, körperlicher Wirkung verbunden.
24. Sativa
Definition (English): Cannabis type often linked with energizing, cerebral effects. Typically chosen for daytime or creative use.
- Spanish: Sativa – Asociada con efectos estimulantes y mentales.
- German: Sativa – Steht oft für aktivierende, geistige Effekte.
25. Hybrid
Definition (English): A cross between indica and sativa genetics. Can lean toward one side or stay balanced in effects.
- Spanish: Híbrido – Cruce entre índica y sativa con efectos mixtos.
- German: Hybrid – Kreuzung aus Indica- und Sativa-Genetik.
Cannabis Terms Explained: 50 Key Words with Global Translations
At the heart of it, this glossary of cannabis terms isn’t just about definitions — it’s about empowerment. When a consumer knows the difference between rosin and resin, or a budtender can clearly explain cannabinoids and terpenes, it builds trust and elevates the entire experience.
Clear language creates better conversations, smarter purchases, and stronger communities.
26. Cultivar
Definition (English): Another word for strain, often used in horticulture to describe a cultivated variety.
- Spanish: Cultivar – Término botánico para una variedad cultivada.
- German: Kultivar – Botanischer Begriff für gezüchtete Sorte.
27. Phenotype
Definition (English): The physical expression of cannabis genetics (smell, look, flavor, effects). Different phenos can grow from the same seeds.
- Spanish: Fenotipo – Expresión física de la genética en una planta.
- German: Phänotyp – Sichtbare Eigenschaften einer Pflanze aus derselben Genetik.
28. Landrace
Definition (English): Original cannabis strains that developed naturally in specific regions, like Afghan Kush or Durban Poison.
- Spanish: Variedad autóctona – Cepas originales adaptadas a regiones específicas.
- German: Landrasse – Ursprüngliche, regional angepasste Cannabissorten.
29. Breeder
Definition (English): A grower who creates new cannabis genetics by crossing plants to stabilize desirable traits.
- Spanish: Criador – Persona que cruza plantas para desarrollar nuevas genéticas.
- German: Züchter – Erzeuger neuer Sorten durch Kreuzung und Selektion.
30. Cut / Clone
Definition (English): A plant cutting that is genetically identical to its mother plant. Used to preserve genetics without seeds.
- Spanish: Corte / Clon – Planta cortada genéticamente idéntica a la madre.
- German: Schnitt / Klon – Genetisch identische Kopie der Mutterpflanze.
31. Terpenes
Definition (English): Aromatic compounds in cannabis that shape its smell, taste, and effects. Terpenes are what make strains fruity, gassy, skunky, or earthy. They work alongside cannabinoids to influence the overall experience.
- Spanish: Terpenos – Compuestos aromáticos que definen el olor, sabor y efectos del cannabis.
- German: Terpene – Aromatische Verbindungen, die Duft, Geschmack und Wirkung bestimmen.
32. Myrcene
Definition (English): The most common terpene in cannabis. Smells earthy, musky, sometimes fruity. Linked to relaxing, sedative effects.
- Spanish: Mirceno – Terpeno terroso y afrutado, asociado a efectos calmantes.
- German: Myrcen – Erdiger, moschusartiger Terpen, wirkt oft beruhigend.
33. Limonene
Definition (English): Citrus terpene found in lemons and oranges. Known for uplifting effects and stress relief.
- Spanish: Limoneno – Terpeno cítrico que eleva el ánimo y reduce el estrés.
- German: Limonen – Zitroniger Terpen, stimmungsaufhellend und stresslösend.
34. Caryophyllene
Definition (English): Spicy, peppery terpene also found in black pepper. Unique because it interacts with CB2 receptors, offering anti-inflammatory potential.
- Spanish: Cariofileno – Terpeno picante con posibles beneficios antiinflamatorios.
- German: Caryophyllen – Würziger Terpen, wirkt entzündungshemmend.
35. Pinene
Definition (English): Smells like fresh pine trees. Believed to promote focus and alertness.
- Spanish: Pineno – Terpeno con aroma a pino fresco, favorece la concentración.
- German: Pinen – Kiefernduftender Terpen, kann wachmachend wirken.
36. Humulene
Definition (English): Earthy terpene also found in hops. Associated with anti-inflammatory effects and possible appetite suppression.
- Spanish: Humuleno – Terpeno terroso presente en el lúpulo, puede reducir apetito.
- German: Humulen – Erdiger Terpen, auch im Hopfen enthalten.
37. Linalool
Definition (English): Floral terpene also found in lavender. Known for calming, stress-relieving properties.
- Spanish: Linalool – Terpeno floral con propiedades relajantes y calmantes.
- German: Linalool – Blumiger Terpen, wirkt beruhigend.
38. Terpinolene
Definition (English): A fresh, herbal terpene with floral hints. Often linked to uplifting or creative energy.
- Spanish: Terpinoleno – Terpeno fresco y herbal con efectos energéticos.
- German: Terpinolen – Frisch-kräuteriger Terpen, oft anregend.
39. Ocimene
Definition (English): Sweet, herbal terpene with fruity undertones. Believed to offer energetic, uplifting effects.
- Spanish: Ocimeno – Terpeno dulce y afrutado que aporta energía.
- German: Ocimen – Süßlich-fruchtiger Terpen, energetisierend.
40. Valencene
Definition (English): A citrus terpene found in Valencia oranges. Delivers sweet, tangy aroma with potential mood-lifting effects.
- Spanish: Valenceno – Terpeno cítrico de la naranja de Valencia.
- German: Valencen – Zitrus-Terpen mit süßem, spritzigem Duft.
41. THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)
Definition (English): The main psychoactive compound in cannabis that creates the “high.” Known for euphoria, appetite stimulation, and relaxation.
- Spanish: THC – Principal compuesto psicoactivo del cannabis.
- German: THC – Hauptwirkstoff von Cannabis, verantwortlich für das High.
42. CBD (Cannabidiol)
Definition (English): Non-intoxicating compound valued for potential relief of anxiety, inflammation, and pain without the high.
- Spanish: CBD (Cannabidiol) – Compuesto no psicoactivo con beneficios terapéuticos.
- German: CBD (Cannabidiol) – Nicht berauschend, geschätzt für medizinische Anwendung.
43. CBG (Cannabigerol)
Definition (English): Often called the “mother cannabinoid” because other cannabinoids form from it. Studied for antibacterial and anti-inflammatory potential.
- Spanish: CBG (Cannabigerol) – Conocido como “cannabinoide madre,” base de otros compuestos.
- German: CBG (Cannabigerol) – Ausgangsstoff vieler anderer Cannabinoide.
44. CBN (Cannabinol)
Definition (English): Mildly psychoactive cannabinoid formed as THC ages. Believed to promote sleep and relaxation.
- Spanish: CBN (Cannabinol) – Cannabinoide asociado con efectos sedantes.
- German: CBN (Cannabinol) – Entsteht aus abgebautem THC, oft schlaffördernd.
45. THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
Definition (English): A cannabinoid with energizing effects at low doses and appetite-suppressing potential.
- Spanish: THCV – Puede dar energía y reducir el apetito.
- German: THCV – Wirkt in niedriger Dosis anregend, appetitzügelnd.
46. CBC (Cannabichromene)
Definition (English): Non-intoxicating cannabinoid studied for potential pain relief, mood elevation, and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Spanish: CBC – Cannabinoide no psicoactivo con posibles beneficios medicinales.
- German: CBC – Nicht berauschend, untersucht auf schmerzlindernde Eigenschaften.
47. Delta-8 THC
Definition (English): A psychoactive cannabinoid similar to Delta-9 but reported as less intense and more clear-headed.
- Spanish: Delta-8 THC – Cannabinoide psicoactivo más suave que Delta-9.
- German: Delta-8 THC – Psychoaktiv, gilt als milder als Delta-9.
48. Delta-9 THC
Definition (English): The classic, most abundant form of THC found in cannabis. Produces the strongest high.
- Spanish: Delta-9 THC – Forma más común y potente de THC.
- German: Delta-9 THC – Häufigste und stärkste THC-Variante.
49. Delta-10 THC
Definition (English): A rare cannabinoid with mild psychoactive effects. Reported to feel uplifting and energizing.
- Spanish: Delta-10 THC – Cannabinoide raro, con efectos más ligeros y energizantes.
- German: Delta-10 THC – Seltener Cannabinoid, eher anregend.
50. THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)
Definition (English): The raw, non-psychoactive form of THC found in fresh cannabis. Converts into THC when heated (decarboxylated).
- Spanish: THCA – Forma ácida y no psicoactiva del THC antes de calentar.
- German: THCA – Rohform von THC, wird psychoaktiv durch Erhitzen.
Cannabis terms are the backbone of the culture. From flower, hash, and pre-rolls to rosin, terpenes, and cannabinoids, these words shape how people shop, consume, and talk about the plant. Consumers use cannabis terms to navigate dispensaries with confidence, and budtenders rely on them to educate and guide customers toward the right experience. Knowing the difference between resin and rosin or understanding what caryophyllene brings to a strain profile takes the conversation beyond surface-level hype.
Respect My Region built this glossary to make cannabis terms clear, accessible, and global. With English definitions plus Spanish and German translations, the language of cannabis connects across borders and cultures. Learning these cannabis terms means speaking fluently in the lifestyle, the science, and the community that drive the industry forward.
