Every generation reshapes language in its own way, and Gen Z is no exception- especially when it comes to cannabis culture. Similarly to how other generations previously created their own cultures based upon developing their own unique language, so too have young adults functioning within a digital society developed yet another culture with corresponding vocabulary. Many people are curious about which terms are most popular today. As a general rule, Gen Z often uses three different words to describe weed: zaza, trees, and bud. Of these words, zaza has become very popular due to its association with viral social media posts and contemporary music. The use of these words serves two functions: they provide some level of anonymity in public spaces, and also exemplify the creativity and trend-setting nature of Gen Z culture. This article will explore some of the different names for weed used by Gen Z, where they stem from, and the way they are used in contemporary social contexts. Some of the topics we will look at are: How digital media plays a role, how legalization has changed the way we talk about marijuana, and the complexities of the new language we now use.
The Transformation of Cannabis Terminology
There is an extensive history of marijuana slang that has changed considerably throughout time in accordance with both the cultural mood of each decade and legal attitude towards cannabis. For example, all through the 1930s, “reefer” was used as the predominant term, whereas during the 1990s, “weed” became the most recognized name for marijuana. Each generation has added its unique spin on things. With Gen Z’s ubiquitous use of the internet, the pace at which language evolves has only quickened. Younger people are now using slang that reflects both mainstream acceptance and creativity about the marketing of cannabis. For example, while many older terms like “pot” are not commonly used anymore within younger demographics, younger people have adopted “zaza,” which is frequently used to refer to “exotic” or “higher-grade” cannabis flowers, as an analogy borrowed from hip-hop artists. In addition to long-standing terms like “trees,” which are considered to be evergreen, today’s youth are continuously updating and modifying their vocabulary in order to remain up-to-date.
The Dominance of “Zaza”
The word that defines Gen Z’s attitude towards cannabis is “zaza” (short for “exotic”) and refers to high-end, super-potent weed. Zaza has gained great traction on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where influencers have utilized it in their posts. Zaza isn’t only about the weed itself; for Gen Z, saying “zaza” symbolizes an elite standard of quality as well as belonging to a cultural group.
“Gas”: Defining High Potency
The word “gas” has gained traction among the Gen-Z lexicon as a term to classify cannabis with a unique, aromatic smell similar to gasoline and strong effects. Initially coined by and popularized in hip-hop culture, “gas” is now widely used within the vernacular of young people today. When someone says they have “real gas,” they are expressing that the product is of excellent quality.
“Loud”: A Classic Term That Still Resonates
Despite being different from other Gen Z slang terms, “Loud” has become part of everyday language. Loud can also be used to describe cannabis products with a powerful aroma. Loud has been used frequently in contemporary music artistically linking older millennials and new Gen Z’s, and will likely continue to hold this place for years due to the vividness of the description.
The Significance of Shared Language
Cannabis has specific words to serve multiple purposes for younger people:
- Maintaining Privacy: Using the words “zaza” or “trees” provides a way to communicate with each other without drawing attention to anyone who may overhear it in public or on social media.
- Expressing Cultural Identity: The slang word that someone uses represents where they get their music, art, and follow social media trends.
- Building Social Bonds: By utilizing the same set of words, people feel a sense of belonging to their peers and use simple language to create relationships with each other.
Regional and Cultural Impacts on Slang
The global reach of the internet has increased exposure to and acceptance of slang; however, local impacts on language should not be underestimated. The geographical distance from large urban centers and the strength of historical connections to cannabis culture both play a role in determining what kinds of slang are established within an individual community.
Hip-hop continues to be the largest influence on the creation of new slang terminology. Terms that are first popularized through viral songs posted to social media frequently find their way into everyday vocabulary due to the influence of local listeners and their use of social media. After their original use, the expressions are further incorporated into daily communication by other local influencers who personalize the terms to fit the unique vibe of each local community.
The Power of Social Media Platforms
Apps including TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) are the biggest drivers of spreading Gen Z’s slang throughout the world. A single new word can gain global recognition in days through the power of memes and viral hashtags. These visual platforms allow for the association of new words with types of imagery, which makes them memorable and impactful.
Normalization through Legalization
As the legalization of marijuana flourishes across the United States, the need for secret (coded) words is less necessary; however, because Gen Z continues to enjoy linguistic creativity, the creation of new words continues. Young adults continue to use imaginative, humorous, and culturally relevant labels regardless of whether cannabis is classified as an industry or remains illegal.
Conclusion
In summary, the primary words for marijuana among Gen Z are zaza, gas, trees, and bud, respectively. Gen Z’s evolving language is a representation of their identity- a creative group influenced by technology and a society that continues to embrace cannabis. As culture evolves, the language will also change in response to new trends. As cannabis culture continues to evolve, staying informed is more important than ever. Whether you’re exploring medical marijuana for the first time or need help renewing your card, MMJMedics is here to guide you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top slang terms currently used for marijuana?
Common slang for cannabis or marijuana continues to evolve as more new, younger generations move into cannabis culture. Currently, Gen Z calls cannabis by many names: zaza, gas, trees, bud, loud, etc. While millennials still frequently use the name “weed” as a means to define what cannabis is and what types of cannabis exist, for Gen Z, “zaza” typically refers to high-end or premium cannabis.
How does Gen Z slang differ from what Millennials use?
Most people would consider that millennials and the majority of people alive today were born and raised during the 1990s through the 2000s. Therefore, they tend to use the words “weed,” “pot,” and “chronic” to define what cannabis is and the different varieties of cannabis that are available. But Gen Z uses the names “zaza” and “gas” to describe cannabis, like other terms have appeared within the music industry as well as social media, and tie in directly to the modern look and feel of hip-hop music.
What is the origin of the word “zaza”?
“Zaza” is derived from the word “exotic,” which is used to describe extremely high-end premium cannabis with unique terpenes and high levels of potency. The term zaza became popular after being widely promoted by many hip-hop artists and influencers on TikTok.
What does it mean when cannabis is called “loud”?
Cannabis is referred to as “loud” due to its intense aroma, where the odour “speaks” for the product. This is usually a compliment to high-quality cannabis. Loud creates a sense of ownership among the youth regarding their culture through new and unique nicknames.
Why does Gen Z create so many new nicknames for cannabis?
The use of evolving slang also allows people to circumvent social media algorithms that could flag or put the user in a group of the overall user of drug-related language.
Is the term “ganja” still used today?
Ganja is a classic, traditional term that is recognized and understood by all age groups. This term is still used today, just not daily within the Gen Z age group.
Has legalization changed how people use slang?
After legalization, more people have used the term “cannabis” in a professional or medical context, whereas slang remains an integral part of connecting to users and the latest cultural movements, and allows people to express their personality through slang.
Resources
https://gabb.com/blog/teen-slang
https://cannaculturecollective.com/the-language-of-weed-slang-lingo-and-terminology-explained
