Familiarizing yourself with teen slang can be overwhelming—especially when there seem to be new secret text codes, emojis, and phrases emerging online every other week. The number of existing terms and expressions that currently exist, and that are ever-evolving with TV, movies, music and pop culture, can be daunting for a parent to understand. Fortunately, Parentology has got you covered.
Find out how often your teen gets “lit”—along with what substances they use to do so—with our comprehensive list of party drug slang terms all parents need to know. We’ve also created unique cards with quick definitions for easy reading and sharing.
1. Nic/Device – Nicotine
In part of the recent rise in teen nicotine use, these terms are common in teen vocabulary. Nicotine is usually shortened to “nic,” and vaporized (“vaped” or “hit”) out of an electronic cigarette — referred to as a “device.” These devices include the popular, easy-to-hide JUUL products as well as several other e-cigarette brands, like Suorin and PHIX.
Example: “I can’t wait to use my new device, but I still need nic. ”
2. Kush/Flower – Marijuana
You’re probably family with the many names for marijuana, but when it comes to modern party drug slang terms “pot” is out of date — teens are more likely to use “kush,” “flower,” and even “bud.”
Example: “I’m gonna pick up some flower for tomorrow’s party.”
3. Domed/Headed – Nicotine Rush
Teens use these terms to describe the sensation of taking a long hit from a nicotine device. The effects of e-cigarettes are usually described as a fast-acting, dizzying head rush, sometimes referred to as a “dome” (due to the way it makes your “dome” feel).
Example: “I took way too many hits. I’m so domed right now.”
4. Faded/Cooked/Baked – High Off Marijuana
These slang words describe one’s experience smoking marijuana, not nicotine. Yes, “high” still works, but teens are more likely to get more creative with the lingo.
Example: “Let’s get some food, I’m baked.”
5. Addy/Study Buddy/Study Drug – Adderall
While some do mix it with other drugs at parties and music events, Adderall is more popular among college students and high schoolers as a study drug. Some students are prescribed Adderall or Vyvanse for ADHD, and a few of those will sell some of their supply to friends. Students typically take Adderall to cram for exams.
Example: “Do you have an addy? I’m not ready for the chemistry final.”
That’s not the only popular prescription party drug to know about…