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Understanding Cannabis Slang Globally
Cannabis has been part of human culture for centuries, and each country has developed its own slang terms to describe it. Whether you’re traveling or just curious, knowing the right words can help you understand the local cannabis culture better. Here’s a breakdown of the most common slang terms for cannabis in different countries and their origins.
Spain
Cannabis Slang in Spain
Slang: María, Hierba, Verde, Porro, Chocolate
Explanation: “María” (Mary) is one of the most widely used names for cannabis in Spain. “Hierba” (herb) and “Verde” (green) refer to the plant’s appearance. “Porro” is a Spanish term for a joint, while “Chocolate” refers to hashish, which is very popular in Spain due to its proximity to Morocco.
Learn more about cannabis in Spain
England (UK)
Ganja Slang in the UK
Slang: Weed, Skunk, Bud, Ganja, Hash
Explanation: The UK shares many slang terms with the U.S., but “Skunk” is unique to the region, referring to strong-smelling, high-potency cannabis strains. “Ganja” originates from Jamaican influence, and “Hash” (short for hashish) is widely used in British cannabis culture.
More about cannabis in the UK
Brazil
Bagulho Slang in Brazil
Slang: Maconha, Erva, Bagulho
Explanation: “Maconha” is the most common term in Brazil for cannabis. “Erva” (herb) is another frequently used term, while “Bagulho” is a slang word often used in street culture to refer to drugs in general.
More about cannabis laws in Brazil
Mexico
Gallo Slang in Mexico
Slang: Mota, Gallo, Yesca
Explanation: “Mota” is the most popular slang term for cannabis in Mexico, used for decades. “Gallo” means rooster but is also slang for a joint. “Yesca” (tinder) is another old-school term used in Mexican cannabis culture.
Explore cannabis laws in Mexico
Portugal
Ganza Slang in Portugal
Slang: Erva, Charro, Ganza
Explanation: “Erva” (herb) is widely used in Portugal, much like in Brazil. “Charro” refers to a joint, while “Ganza” is another popular term for cannabis.
More about cannabis in Portugal
France
Oinj Slang in France
Slang: Beuh, Shit, Oinj
Explanation: “Beuh” (pronounced like “buh”) is the most common French term for weed. “Shit” refers to hashish, which is popular in France due to North African influences. “Oinj” is “joint” with a French street accent.
France’s cannabis laws
Germany
Dope Slang in Germany
Slang: Gras, Hanf, Dope
Explanation: “Gras” (grass) is the most widely used term for cannabis in Germany. “Hanf” is the German word for hemp, while “Dope” is borrowed from English and refers to cannabis products.
Read about cannabis in Germany
USA
Kush Slang in the USA
Slang: Weed, Pot, Kush, Bud, Mary Jane
Explanation: The U.S. has countless cannabis slang terms, but “Weed” is the most universal. “Pot” was popularized in the mid-20th century, while “Kush” refers to high-quality strains. “Mary Jane” is a play on the Spanish name “Marijuana.”
Explore U.S. cannabis laws
Israel
גאנג׳ה Slang in Israel
Slang: ירוק (Yarok), גאנג׳ה (Ganja), חשיש (Hashish)
Explanation: “Yarok” means “green” and is widely used in Israel. “Ganja” is borrowed from Jamaican slang, while “Hashish” refers to hash, which is popular in Israel due to Middle Eastern cannabis traditions.
More about cannabis in Israel
Middle East
كيف Slang in the Middle East
Slang: حشيش (Hashish), كيف (Keef)
Explanation: “Hashish” is the most widely used term in the Middle East, as hash is more common than cannabis flower. “Keef” refers to the resinous trichomes collected from cannabis.
Explore cannabis laws in the Middle East
China
Dàmá Slang in China
Slang: 大麻 (Dàmá)
Explanation: “Dàmá” is the official term for cannabis in China. Cannabis has a long history in China, dating back thousands of years in traditional medicine.
China’s view on cannabis
Japan
大麻 Slang in Japan
Slang: 大麻 (Taima)
Explanation: “Taima” is the Japanese term for cannabis. While cannabis use is strictly illegal in Japan, the term has historical roots in Shinto rituals and hemp farming.
Japan’s cannabis laws
Italy
Canne Slang in Italy
Slang: Erba, Fumo, Canne
Explanation: “Erba” (herb) is the most common term for cannabis in Italy. “Fumo” (smoke) is often used for hashish, while “Canne” (pipes) refers to joints.
Italy’s cannabis regulations
Where to find cannabis in Madrid?
Marijuana slang varies significantly from country to country, reflecting cultural and historical influences. Whether you call it “Mota,” “Weed,” “Beuh,” or “Gras,” it all represents the same plant enjoyed worldwide. If you’re looking for a safe and legal way to enjoy cannabis in Spain, Spain420.es can connect you with the best cannabis social clubs in Madrid, where you can smoke legally for just €5 with a beer or beverage for €1!
