Reefer

A slang term, primarily used in the past, for a marijuana cigarette. The term evokes the imagery of rolled cannabis, ready for smoking. It originated in the early 20th century, gaining popularity through jazz culture and the counterculture movements. 'Reefer' is a colloquialism and less commonly used in modern slang compared to terms like 'joint,' 'blunt,' or 'weed.' It's crucial to acknowledge that its usage and legal implications vary significantly depending on jurisdiction.

Reefer meaning with examples

• In the old blues song, the singer lamented, 'Gimme a reefer and a bottle of gin, I'll forget all my troubles and all my sin.' This reflected the carefree association of the time. The cultural context then included an embrace of illicit activities. The song represented a rebellious attitude towards societal norms of that time, where drug use was less known and had different implications.
• The film noir detective sniffed at the air, and muttered, 'Smells like someone's been enjoying a reefer.' This sentence exemplifies how the term implied a sense of hidden activities. This reference placed reefer within the secretive and often illegal world. The mention also highlighted a contrast with the protagonist’s professional duties in solving crimes.
• During the jazz age, a reefer was seen as integral to the lifestyle and cultural landscape. Musicians would use the word casually. It connected them to music, creativity, and a sense of rebellion against conservative ideals. It was a component of a subculture. This slang term identified a lifestyle often romanticized in its time.
• My grandfather often told stories about parties where people would share a reefer. He would tell me that he thought it helped enhance creativity. He emphasized how this practice was considered 'unconventional' and illegal. This anecdote shows how the word represented an element of shared experiences and illicit enjoyment of that time.