What does vape mean?
Vape chiefly means to use an electronic cigarette, a battery-powered device that heats liquid to produce an inhalable aerosol. It can also name the device itself or refer to an act of using one. The word became established in the 1980s as a shortened form of “vapor” and gained prominence through the rapid spread of electronic cigarettes. In conversation, “vape” is usually more concise and contemporary than “use an electronic cigarette,” while “vaping” commonly names the broader practice. Its register varies by context: users and retailers may use it neutrally, whereas people opposed to vaping may use it critically or disparagingly. The term generally refers to inhaling aerosol produced by a device rather than simply breathing in ordinary vapor, although related products and substances can also be described as being vaped.
To use an electronic cigarette or similar device, typically by drawing an aerosol through it.
"They vape indoors even though the venue discourages it."
May be used intransitively or transitively, as in “vape an e-liquid.”
An electronic cigarette or similar handheld device that produces an aerosol for inhalation; also, an act of using such a device.
"A disposable vape can be used for only a limited time before its battery is exhausted."
The plural “vapes” commonly refers to multiple electronic cigarettes or similar devices.
The usual plural for electronic cigarettes or similar devices.
"The counter displayed several vapes, batteries, and replacement tanks."
The word “vape” emerged in the 1980s through a clever shortening of “vapor,” before becoming synonymous with electronic cigarettes.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of vape
The English word “vape” was formed in the 1980s by back-formation from “vapor,” a word inherited through Old French from Latin vapor, meaning “steam” or a gaseous substance.” Its development was closely associated with the emergence of electronic cigarettes and related devices. English relatives including “vaporize,” “vapour,” and “vaporous” all reflect the same Latin source.
Related word forms
How vape is actually used
Generally informal and common in everyday speech, though its connotations range from neutral to derogatory depending on the speaker and context. As a transitive verb, it can take what is being vaped, as in “vape nicotine liquid.” The gerund “vaping” commonly describes the activity or practice.
Easily confused with vape
A vapor is a gaseous substance, while to vape is to draw aerosol from an electronic cigarette or similar device.