doobie: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowSlang, Very informal
Quick answer
What does “doobie” mean?
A slang term for a marijuana cigarette, a joint.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A slang term for a marijuana cigarette, a joint.
In casual contexts, may be used humorously or affectionately to refer to a single, hand-rolled marijuana cigarette. It can also appear in pop culture or music references with the same core meaning.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word is understood in both varieties but is of American origin and more deeply embedded in US pop culture. In the UK, 'joint' or 'spliff' are far more common contemporary terms.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes a casual, retro, or countercultural vibe. In modern US usage, it might sound humorous or deliberately old-school.
Frequency
Rare in contemporary UK English. In US English, it is recognized but infrequent, mostly used for stylistic or nostalgic effect.
Grammar
How to Use “doobie” in a Sentence
[Subject] + roll + a + doobie[Subject] + pass + (Object) + the + doobie[Subject] + smoke + a + doobieVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Not used, except in sociological or cultural studies discussing slang.
Everyday
Used only in very informal settings among certain social groups, often with humorous or nostalgic intent.
Technical
Not used in legal, medical, or scientific contexts.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “doobie”
- Using it in formal contexts.
- Assuming it is a current, common term.
- Spelling it as 'dooby' or 'dubie'.
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'to doobie').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is very informal slang related to illegal drug use in many jurisdictions. It is not appropriate for polite or formal conversation.
In standard slang, no. Its primary and almost exclusive meaning is a marijuana cigarette. It is also the name of a rock band.
No, it is considered dated. Younger generations are more likely to use terms like 'joint', 'blunt', or 'spliff'.
No, 'doobie' is solely a noun in standard slang usage. Using it as a verb is non-standard and would likely cause confusion.
A slang term for a marijuana cigarette, a joint.
Doobie is usually slang, very informal in register.
Doobie: in British English it is pronounced /ˈduːbi/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈduːbi/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “The doobie brothers (playful reference, also a band name)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the 1970s band 'The Doobie Brothers' – their music is associated with the era when this slang was common.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONSUMABLE OBJECT AS A COMPANION (the 'doobie' is something shared in a social ritual).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the word 'doobie' be MOST appropriately used?