cannabis

noun

can·​na·​bis ˈka-nə-bəs 

1

: a tall Asian herb (Cannabis sativa of the family Cannabaceae, the hemp family) that has a tough fiber and is often separated into a tall loosely branched species (C. sativa) and a low-growing densely branched species (C. indica) : hemp sense 1a

—used especially for cultivated varieties having high levels of THC

2

a

: the psychoactive dried flower buds, leaves, or preparations (such as hashish) or chemicals (such as THC) that are derived from the cannabis plant

especially : marijuana

b

: cannabinoid

Examples of cannabis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

It was compounded by a period of erratic behavior that included the use of cannabis and alcohol, an arrest for misdemeanor vandalism at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Beverly Hills and alarming posts on social networks. —Jad El Reda, Los Angeles Times, 9 May 2025

The synergy between the sun’s endorphin boost and cannabis’ effects may lead to a richer, more enjoyable experience Growing cannabis outdoors using sunlight significantly reduces energy consumption and carbon footprint compared to energy-intensive indoor cultivation. —Tribune Content Agency, Mercury News, 9 May 2025

Currently, California is one of the few states requiring an additional layer of review and approval for research on psychedelics and cannabis, even after studies receive FDA and DEA approval. —Joe Hudak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 May 2025

Investigators confirmed IDs, credit cards, psilocybin and multiple items that tested positive for cannabis were found in Nichols' vehicle. —Jack Armstrong, USA Today, 2 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin, hemp, from Greek kannabis; akin to Old English hænep hemp

First Known Use

1783, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing cannabis

• medical cannabis

Kids Definition

cannabis

noun

can·​na·​bis ˈkan-ə-bəs 

: hemp sense 1

also : a preparation (as marijuana) made from hemp and affecting the mind

Medical Definition

cannabis

noun

can·​na·​bis ˈkan-ə-bəs 

1

: a tall Asian herb (Cannabis sativa of the family Cannabaceae, the hemp family) that has a tough fiber and is often separated into a tall loosely branched species (C. sativa) and a low-growing densely branched species (C. indica) : hemp sense 1

—used especially for cultivated varieties having high levels of THC

2

: the psychoactive dried flower buds, leaves, or preparations (as hashish) or chemicals (as THC) that are derived from the cannabis plant

especially : marijuana