Vaping Glossary: A Beginner’s Guide to Vaping Terms and Jargon

Are you new to vaping and confused by the terminology used in the vaping community? With the vast amount of vaping devices, e-liquids, and accessories available, it can be challenging to understand the language used in the vaping world. 

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive vaping glossary that will help you understand the vaping terms and jargon commonly used in the community.

Introduction

Vaping has become a popular alternative to smoking cigarettes, and the vaping industry has grown rapidly over the years. However, the terminology used in the vaping community can be overwhelming for beginners. 

In this article, we will provide you with a vaping glossary that will help you understand the language used in the vaping world.

What is vaping?

Vaping is the act of inhaling vapor produced by an electronic cigarette or other vaping devices. The vapor is produced by heating e-liquid, which is a mixture of propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavorings, and sometimes nicotine.

Types of Vaping Devices

There are different types of vaping devices available in the market. Some of the most common types include:

• Cigalike: A cigalike is a vaping device that looks like a traditional cigarette. It is small and easy to use, making it an ideal device for beginners.
• Vape Pen: A vape pen is a small and sleek device that resembles a pen. It is lightweight and easy to carry around.
• Box Mod: A box mod is a larger and more powerful vaping device. It allows you to customize your vaping experience by adjusting the wattage and temperature.
• Pod Mod: A pod mod is a small and portable device that uses refillable or disposable pods.

Anatomy of a Vaping Device

A vaping device consists of different parts, including:

• Battery: The battery provides power to the vaping device.
• Tank: The tank holds the e-liquid.
• Coil: The coil is a heating element that vaporizes the e-liquid.
• Atomizer: The atomizer is the part of the vaping device that houses the coil and the tank.
• Button: The button activates the heating element, allowing you to inhale the vapor.

Types of E-liquids

There are different types of e-liquids available in the market, including:

• Freebase: Freebase e-liquids are the most common type of e-liquids. They are available in different nicotine strengths and PG/VG ratios.
• Nicotine Salts: Nicotine salts are a type of e-liquid that uses nicotine in its natural form. They provide a smoother throat hit and are suitable for high nicotine concentrations.
• Shortfill: Shortfill e-liquids are nicotine-free e-liquids that are sold in larger bottles. They allow you to add nicotine shots to customize the nicotine strength.

Ingredients in E-liquids

E-liquids typically contain four main ingredients, including:

• Propylene Glycol (PG): PG is a clear and odorless liquid that is used as a carrier for the flavorings and nicotine.
• Vegetable Glycerin

Nicotine Strengths

Nicotine strength refers to the amount of nicotine present in an e-liquid. Nicotine strengths are measured in milligrams per milliliter (mg/ml) or as a percentage. Common nicotine strengths include 3mg/ml, 6mg/ml, 12mg/ml, and 18mg/ml.

PG/VG Ratios

PG/VG ratios refer to the amount of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) present in an e-liquid. 

A high PG/VG ratio results in a stronger throat hit and a more intense flavor, while a high VG/PG ratio produces thicker vapor clouds.

Steeping

Steeping is the process of allowing an e-liquid to rest for a period of time to allow the flavors to blend and mature. 

Steeping can improve the flavor of an e-liquid, especially if it has a complex flavor profile.

Types of Coils

Coils are the heating elements that vaporize the e-liquid. There are different types of coils available in the market, including:

• Kanthal Coils: Kanthal coils are made of a chromium, iron, and aluminum alloy. They are suitable for vaping at low to medium wattage.
• Stainless Steel Coils: Stainless steel coils are versatile and can be used in temperature control mode and wattage mode.
• Nickel Coils: Nickel coils are used in temperature control mode and provide a smooth and consistent vaping experience.

Ohm’s Law

Ohm’s Law is a fundamental law in electronics that describes the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance. 

In vaping, Ohm’s Law is used to calculate the wattage and current that a vaping device will draw from the battery.

Wattage

Wattage refers to the amount of power that a vaping device produces. Higher wattage results in more vapor production and a stronger throat hit.

Battery Safety

Battery safety is essential when using vaping devices. It is important to use the correct batteries and chargers and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Drip Tip

A drip tip is the mouthpiece of a vaping device. It can be made of different materials, including plastic, metal, and glass.

Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) vs. Direct-to-Lung (DTL) Vaping

MTL vaping involves inhaling the vapor into the mouth before inhaling it into the lungs. DTL vaping involves inhaling the vapor directly into the lungs. Different vaping devices are suitable for MTL and DTL vaping.

A Comprehensive Glossary of Vaping Terms for Beginners

ADV	All Day Vape is an e-liquid flavor that vapers are happy to vape throughout the day rather than changing flavors midday.
Atomizer	An atomizer is an electrical component that turns e-liquid into vapor. It is commonly referred to as a coil.
APV	APV stands for Advanced Personal Vaporizer but is typically referred to as a mod. Such e-cigs have larger units with replaceable batteries, variable voltages or wattage depending on the make.
Airflow	Airflow refers to the amount of air that is sucked in with each drag. Looser airflows usually result in more vapor while tighter airflows produce less but leave a more intense flavor. The amount of airflow can change your overall experience of vaping.
Automatic	An automatic e-cigarette is one that doesn’t have a button. The device recognizes when the user sucks on the device.
Automatic Shutoff	This is a safety feature that most regulated e-cigarettes have to prevent overheating of the battery.
Battery	The battery is the main part of an e-cigarette. This term typically refers to e-cigs that don’t have a replaceable battery as they charge up manually or cannot be used once the power has run out.
Box Mod	A box mod is a type of mod that is supported by a box-shaped battery.
Blend	A term that refers to the ratio of propylene glycol to vegetable glycerin in e-liquid.
Clearomizer	A clearomizer is a combined cartridge and atomizer. This is usually transparent and allows vapers to measure the e-liquid level.
Cig-a-like	A cig-a-like is a type of e-cig that resembles a tobacco cigarette.
Bridge	A bridge is a disposable atomizer where the e-liquid is held.
Cloud Chasing	Cloud chasing refers to vapers seeking an e-cigarette that blows massive clouds.
Clouds	Clouds describe how much vapor a person issues with each puff.
Coil Jig	A coil jig is a metal tool meant for rebuilding the coil in an e-cig.
Coil	A coil is an essential component in the atomizer that heats or vaporizes the e-liquid.
Custom Mod	A custom mod is usually referred to vapers who have made their mod rather than purchasing a factory-built one.
DIY	In this sense, DIY usually refers to those who make their own e-liquid.
Drip Tip	A drip tip is a removable mouthpiece for an e-cigarette.
Dripping	Dripping is the process of putting liquid onto the coil instead of in a cartridge.
Dry Burn	This is an after-effect from an e-cigarette when there is insufficient or no liquid in the device.
Dry Hit	A dry hit is a term used to describe the drag of an e-cig when the coil has burnt out.
DTL or DL	Standing for Direct To Lung, it is a style of vaping where the vapor is drawn directly into the lungs, like taking a deep breath.
E-liquid	E-liquid is a liquid solution that usually contains nicotine, propylene glycol, and vegetable glycerin. However, you can get liquids that don’t contain nicotine. Also known as vape liquid or vape juice.
Vape Pen	A slim, pen-shaped e-cigarette designed for convenience and ease of use.
Vaper	A person who uses e-cigarettes or vapes.
Vaping	The act of inhaling and exhaling vapour produced by an e-cigarette.
Variable Voltage (VV)	A type of mod that allows the user to adjust the voltage output.
Vegetable Glycerine (VG)	A type of liquid used in e-liquids that is thicker and produces denser vapour clouds.
Wattage	The amount of power used by an e-cigarette to heat the coil and produce vapour.

Now that we have a better understanding of some of the common terms in the vaping industry, let’s dive into them in more detail.

Atomiser or Coil	The atomiser or coil is an electrical component that turns e-liquid into vapour. It is the part of the e-cigarette that heats up and is responsible for producing the vapour that is inhaled. The coil is usually made of wire wrapped around a wick or mesh material, which is then soaked in e-liquid.
Airflow	Airflow refers to the amount of air that is sucked in with each drag. Looser airflows usually result in more vapour, while tighter airflows produce less vapour but leave a more intense flavour. The amount of airflow can change your overall experience of vaping.
E-Liquid	E-liquid, also known as vape liquid or vape juice, is a liquid solution that usually contains nicotine, propylene glycol and vegetable glycerine. However, you can get liquids that don’t contain nicotine. The ratio of propylene glycol to vegetable glycerine in e-liquid is referred to as the “blend.”
Nicotine Strength	Nicotine strength is indicated in milligrams (mg) and refers to the amount of nicotine in one millilitre of e-liquid. The higher the mg, the stronger the nicotine content.
VG/PG Ratio	The VG/PG ratio is the ratio of vegetable glycerine to propylene glycol in e-liquid. VG is thicker and produces denser vapour clouds, while PG produces a stronger throat hit and carries flavour better.
Mods	Mods are a type of e-cigarette that is made up of separate components. Advanced Personal Vaporisers (APV) or “mods” have larger units with replaceable batteries and variable voltages or wattage depending on the make. There are also Box Mods, which are supported by a box-shaped battery, and Custom Mods, which are typically made by vapers themselves.
MTL & DTL	MTL and DTL are styles of vaping that closely mimic the act of smoking. With MTL, vapour is drawn into the mouth before being transferred to the lungs, while with DTL, the vapour is drawn directly into the lungs, like taking a deep breath. These different styles of vaping affect the amount of airflow and the type of e-cigarette used.

Conclusion

Understanding the terminology used in the vaping world is essential for beginners. This vaping glossary has provided you with the basic knowledge of the most commonly used vaping terms and jargon. With this knowledge, you can make informed decisions when choosing a vaping device, e-liquid, and accessories.

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FAQs vaping terms

What is the difference between a cigalike and a vape pen?

A cigalike is a type of e-cigarette that is designed to look like a traditional cigarette. It is small and usually comes with disposable cartridges. A vape pen, on the other hand, is a larger device that is rechargeable and refillable.

What is the best PG/VG ratio for e-liquids?

The best PG/VG ratio for e-liquids depends on personal preference. A high PG/VG ratio is better for those who prefer a stronger throat hit and a more intense flavor, while a high VG/PG ratio is better for those who prefer thicker vapor clouds.

Can I customize the nicotine strength of my e-liquid?

Yes, you can customize the nicotine strength of your e-liquid. Most e-liquid manufacturers offer a range of nicotine strengths, and some even allow you to customize the nicotine strength.

How long should I steep my e-liquid?

The length of time required for steeping an e-liquid varies depending on the e-liquid and personal preference. Generally, it is recommended to steep an e-liquid for at least one week to allow the flavors to blend and mature.

What is the difference between MTL and DTL vaping?

MTL vaping involves inhaling the vapor into the mouth before inhaling it into the lungs. This type of vaping is similar to smoking a traditional cigarette. DTL vaping involves inhaling the vapor directly into the lungs, resulting in a more intense flavor and larger vapor clouds. The type of vaping device you use will determine whether it is suitable for MTL or DTL vaping.

Resources:

• https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/5-truths-you-need-to-know-about-vaping
• https://timebusinessnews.com/the-best-vape-juice-flavors-to-try/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicotine_salt?_ga=2.56470763.1724371659.1681286262-1699932226.1672148734
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_cigarette
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicotine_salt?_ga=2.56470763.1724371659.1681286262-1699932226.1672148734
• https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/pdfs/ecigarette-or-vaping-products-visual-dictionary-508.pdf
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507189/