Etymology of cannabis

Cannabis

Cannabis (/ˈkænəbɪs/), also known as marijuana among other names, is a psychoactive drug from the Cannabis plant used primarily for medical or recreational purposes.

Etymology

The word "Cannabis" is derived from the Greek word kánnabis. The term entered into the English language via Latin and originally comes from the ancient Scythians, a large group of Iranian Eurasian nomads. The Scythians introduced the Cannabis plant to the Ancient Greeks and other cultures in the area.

The term "marijuana" is of Mexican Spanish origin. It was historically used to refer specifically to the medicinal parts of the plant. The term was popularized in the U.S during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, during the Mexican Revolution.

Related Terms

Cannabinoid: Any of a group of closely related compounds which include cannabinol and the active constituents of cannabis.
Cannabis sativa: A herbaceous species of Cannabis which is used as a source of fiber, oil, and medicinal compounds.
Cannabis indica: A species of the Cannabis genus that causes psychoactive effects.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): The principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis.
Cannabidiol (CBD): A phytocannabinoid discovered in 1940. It is one of some 113 identified cannabinoids in cannabis plants, accounting for up to 40% of the plant's extract.