Reefer

Reefer is a colloquial term that refers to a marijuana cigarette. The term is derived from the Spanish word "grifa," which is used to describe someone who uses cannabis. The term has been in use since the early 20th century and is often associated with the jazz music scene.

History

The use of the term "reefer" can be traced back to the early 20th century, during the Prohibition era in the United States. During this time, the use of marijuana was widespread in certain subcultures, particularly among jazz musicians and in the African American community. The term "reefer" was popularized through jazz music, with songs like "Reefer Man" by Cab Calloway and "Viper's Drag" by Fats Waller referencing the use of marijuana.

Reefer and Culture

The term "reefer" has been widely used in popular culture, particularly in music and film. In the 1936 film Reefer Madness, the term is used to depict the supposed dangers of marijuana use. The film has since become a cult classic and is often cited as an example of the moral panic surrounding drug use in the early 20th century.

In music, the term "reefer" has been used in a number of songs, particularly in the jazz and blues genres. Notable examples include "Reefer Man" by Cab Calloway and "Muggles" by Louis Armstrong, both of which reference the use of marijuana.

Legal Status

The legal status of marijuana, and by extension "reefer," varies widely around the world. In some countries, such as the Netherlands and Canada, marijuana is legal for both medicinal and recreational use. In the United States, the legal status of marijuana varies by state, with some states allowing for medicinal use, recreational use, or both.

Despite the changing legal landscape, the term "reefer" continues to be used to refer to marijuana, particularly in a historical or cultural context.

See Also

• Cannabis (drug)
• History of marijuana
• Legal history of cannabis in the United States
• Cannabis culture