vape

American  

[veyp] / veɪp /

noun

1. an e-cigarette for the delivery of nicotine in a vapor, or a similar device for inhaling cannabis, LSD, and certain other easily vaporized drugs; a vape pen.

2. an act or period of vaping.

   It took a few vapes to get used to it.

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verb (used with or without object)

vaped, vaping

1. to draw in and exhale the vapor from (the substance in an e-cigarette or similar device).

   In many places you are allowed to smoke or vape medical cannabis anywhere in public.

   Fully charged, the device allows you to vape all day.

Other Word Forms

• vaper
  noun

Etymology

Origin of vape

Coined in 1979 by U.S. entrepreneur Brenda Coffee, physician Norman Jacobson, and inventor Jon Philip Ray; shortened from vapor ( def. ) or vaporize ( def. )

Example Sentences

The FDA in March issued a draft guidance document that hinted in the future the agency could authorize mint, coffee and other vape flavors potentially more appealing to adults—but may avoid authorizing fruit flavors.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

“The White House and FDA are completely aligned on expanding the availability of flavored vape products for adults, and adults only,” said White House spokesman Kush Desai.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

The huge blaze engulfed the B-listed Victorian building next to Glasgow Central Station on Sunday 8 March after starting in a vape shop on Union Street.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026

The historic Union Corner, at the junction of Union Street and Gordon Street, was destroyed in the inferno on Sunday night after flames took hold in a vape shop.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

He said he returned with a fire extinguisher and tried to fight the fire but he heard two explosions in the vape shop and had to turn around.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026