Your Vaping Glossary: A-Z Vaping Terms

Navigate the vaping world with ease using our comprehensive A-Z vaping glossary! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced vaper, this blog post breaks down all the essential terms, from airflow control to vape juice. Master the lingo and deepen your understanding of vaping culture and technology.

A-Z Vape Terms

Aerosol (Vapour)
A fine mist of vapour created when e-liquid is heated in a device. Unlike smoke, aerosol doesn’t involve combustion, making it a better alternative to smoking.

Airflow
The amount of air that flows through a device while vaping. Adjustable airflow allows users to customize their experience, from tighter draws to airy hits.

Battery
The power source for a vape device. Rechargeable batteries are common in reusable systems, while disposables come with pre-installed, non-rechargeable batteries.

Burnt
A term describing the unpleasant taste when a coil overheats or runs out of e-liquid, resulting in a “burnt” flavour.

Cartridge
A container or pod that holds e-liquid, often pre-filled and disposable. Used in many pod systems and starter kits for ease of use.

Coil
A heating element inside the device that turns e-liquid into vapour. Coils come in different resistances, affecting flavour and vapour production.

Device
The main component of a vaping system, housing the batteryl, and other essential parts. Devices range from compact pod systems to advanced mods.

Direct-to-Lung (DTL)
A vaping style where vapour is inhaled directly into the lungs, offering larger clouds and more intense flavour. Preferred by experienced vapers.

Disposable
A single-use vape device pre-filled with e-liquid and an internal battery. Disposables are convenient, portable, and require no maintenance.

Drip Tip
The mouthpiece of a vaping device, through which users inhale vapour. Available in various shapes and sizes to suit preferences.

Dry Hit
An unpleasant experience when a coil is heated without sufficient e-liquid, producing a harsh taste and discomfort.

E-Cigarette
A compact vaping device resembling a traditional cigarette. E-cigarettes are often the entry point for those transitioning from smoking to vaping.

E-liquid (E-juice or vape juice)
The liquid used in vaping devices, containing ingredients like vegetable glycerin (VG), propylene glycol (PG), nicotine, and flavourings. It’s vapourized to create aerosol (vapour).

Flooding
Occurs when excess e-liquid saturates the coil, leading to gurgling sounds and reduced vapour production. Proper maintenance helps prevent flooding.

Juice
A casual term for e-liquid. Available in various flavours and nicotine strengths to cater to individual preferences.

Mod
A customizable vaping device offering advanced features like adjustable wattage, temperature control, and rebuildable components. Mods are ideal for experienced vapers.

Mouth-to-Lung (MTL)
A vaping style mimicking the experience of smoking. Vapour is first drawn into the mouth before inhaling into the lungs. Perfect for beginners and those seeking a cigarette-like feel.

Nicotine Salts
A type of nicotine e-liquid. Nicotine salts provide a smoother throat hit, making them ideal for higher nicotine strengths.

Ohm
The unit of measurement for coil resistance. Lower resistance (sub-ohm) produces larger clouds, while higher resistance is suited for MTL vaping.

Pod
A cartridge or tank used in pod systems. Pods can be refillable or pre-filled, providing an easy way to switch flavours or replace e-liquid.

Pod System
A compact, user-friendly vaping device that uses pods instead of tanks. Pod systems are great for beginners and those seeking portability.

Propylene Glycol (PG)
A common ingredient in e-liquid that carries flavour and provides a stronger throat hit. PG is thinner than VG, making it ideal for MTL vaping and flavour intensity.

Rebuildable Atomizer (RBA)
An advanced component allowing users to build their own coils. RBAs offer customisation but require experience and technical knowledge.

Resistance
The level of electrical resistance in a coil, measured in ohms. It determines how much power is required to heat the coil. Resistance affects vapour production, flavour, and the overall vaping experience.

Starter Kit
A beginner-friendly vaping package that includes everything needed to start vaping. alt. offers starter kits with pre-filled pods for hassle-free use.

Tank
A container that holds e-liquid in reusable devices. Tanks are larger than pods, offering extended use without refilling.

Temperature Control (TC)
A feature in advanced devices that lets users set the temperature for the coil, preventing dry hits and ensuring consistent vapour production.

Throat Hit
The sensation felt at the back of the throat when inhaling vapour. The intensity depends on the e-liquid’s nicotine strength and PG/VG ratio.

Variable Voltage/Wattage
A feature in some devices allowing users to adjust power settings, customising vapour production and flavour to suit their preferences.

Vegetable Glycerin (VG)
A key ingredient in e-liquid. VG is responsible for creating thick vapour clouds, smoothness and adds a touch of sweetness to flavours.

Vapour
The visible mist produced by a vaping device. Vapour is created when the e-liquid is heated, offering a satisfying alternative to smoking.

Vaporizer
Another term for a vaping device. Vaporizers come in various styles, from simple disposables to advanced mods.

Vape
A broad term covering the act of using a vaping device or referring to the device itself. Vaping offers a better alternative to smoking.

Understand Essential Vaping Terms

Now that you’re familiar with all the vaping terms, you’re better equipped to navigate the world of vaping confidently. This glossary not only simplifies vape words and vape slang terms but also empowers you to make informed decisions. Whether you’re selecting your first device or upgrading to a more advanced system, understanding these terms ensures a smoother journey.

alt. offers a wide range of pod systems, disposable vapes, and accessories, designed to provide the ultimate vaping experience. Explore our collections and find the perfect product to match your needs and preferences.

Vaping Glossary FAQs

What are slang terms for vaping?

Common vaping slang terms include “cloud chasing” (creating large vapour clouds), “dry hit” (vaping without enough e-liquid), and “sub-ohming” (using low-resistance coils for bigger clouds).

What are common nicknames for vapes?

Vapes are often called “e-cigs,” “pens,” “mods,” or “vaporizers.” These nicknames vary depending on the type and style of the device.

What is a vape refill called?

A vape refill is commonly referred to as “e-liquid” or “juice.” In pod systems, refills involve replacing pre-filled pods or manually adding e-liquid to refillable pods.

What is a normal vape called?

A standard vape is often referred to as a “pod system” or “e-cigarette,” particularly for beginner-friendly devices designed for simplicity and ease of use.

With this comprehensive vaping glossary, you’re ready to explore the vaping world with confidence. Dive into alt.’s range of products and discover the ideal vaping solution for your needs today!