What does meth mean?
Meth is a common informal term for methamphetamine, a potent stimulant that affects the central nervous system. It is also used for the clandestine process of producing the drug, particularly in references to a “meth lab.” The word is especially common in North American English and has become prominent in news coverage, public-health campaigns, policing, and first-hand accounts of addiction. Crystalline methamphetamine is often called “crystal meth,” with “crystal” or “ice” used informally in some regions. Because the underlying drug can cause serious cardiovascular, neurological, and psychological harm, and because its manufacture involves toxic and sometimes flammable chemicals, discussions of meth often carry serious legal and public-safety implications. Nevertheless, the clipped name “meth” is much more common in everyday speech than the formal word “methamphetamine,” making it a familiar example of how informal usage can shape public vocabulary.
An informal name for methamphetamine, especially the crystalline form of the stimulant drug.
"The investigation indicated that meth was being supplied throughout the county."
This is the dominant everyday sense. It is informal and especially common in North American English.
The clandestine manufacture of methamphetamine.
"Authorities found evidence that meth was being produced in the abandoned industrial site."
This sense is common in reports concerning drug enforcement and is usually expressed in phrases such as “meth lab” or “cooking meth.”
Meth is normally used as an uncountable noun. The plural “meths” is uncommon and should not be used where the uncountable form is intended.
"The investigation focused on the meths and precursors found at the site."
From the formal name methamphetamine to the everyday label meth, this two-syllable shortcut reflects the drug's pervasive presence in public discourse.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does meth come from?
Meth is a clipping of methamphetamine, whose name combines the element methyl with amphetamine. The longer name was established in the early 20th century, while the shortened form became well established later during the same century, particularly in North American usage. Methamphetamine is related to amphetamine and to the methyl group found in many organic compounds, although the everyday word is conventionally associated only with the stimulant drug.
How meth is actually used
Meth is informal and can sound casual or colloquial even in serious reporting. Because of its widespread use, it is especially associated with North American English, although the shortened term is also understood in Britain. The term may refer either to the drug itself or, in the second sense, to its manufacture.
Easily confused with meth
Meth is methamphetamine, a stimulant drug, whereas methane is a flammable gas that is a common component of natural gas.
Meth is an informal name for methamphetamine, while math is an informal short form of mathematics.