Why Are People Who Use Vapes Called Vapers, Not Vaporers?

The term vaper has become widely accepted to describe individuals who use e-cigarettes or vaporizers, rather than the term vaporer. This article explores the origin and usage of these terms, emphasizing the difference between the smoke from traditional cigarettes and the vapor from e-cigarettes.

Understanding the Term 'Vape'

Ecigs (electronic cigarettes) are significantly different from traditional cigarettes in their operation. Unlike conventional cigarettes, which are lit by a lighter to ignite tobacco and produce smoke, ecigs do not rely on combustion. Instead, the smoke from an ecig is actually vapor—a result of flavored liquid (also known as e-liquid or e-juice) being heated by a built-in coil to produce a mist-like substance.

This process of heating and producing vapor is not the same as combustion, which is the process of burning a material. Combustion releases toxic chemicals and tar, whereas vaporization produces a much less harmful substance. This distinction is crucial in understanding why e-cigarette users are referred to as vapers.

The Evolution of Terminology

The term vape first emerged in the late 1990s with the advent of early vaporizers. It was associated with the act of vaporizing substances, such as herbs, for recreational or medicinal purposes. Over the years, as e-cigarettes gained popularity, the term vape transitioned to specifically refer to the act of using e-cigarettes.

As the usage of e-cigarettes grew, so did the need to distinguish between traditional smoking and vaping. The term vaper became the preferred term to describe individuals engaging in this activity. Similarly, vaping is the act of using an e-cigarette or vaporizer, which further solidified the terms use in the vaping community.

Popular Misconceptions and Terminology

Given the fundamental difference between smoke and vapor, it is essential to understand the terminology correctly. Smoke is the visible matter that results from combustion, while vapor is the gaseous state of a substance. For example, if you burn wood, the visible smoke is the result of combustion, whereas if you heat the same wood in a closed environment to a high temperature, it would produce a vapor that would eventually turn back into a solid form (such as carbon).

Many people, including those within the vaping community, confuse the terms. This confusion can lead to misconceptions and resistance to accepting vaping as a safer alternative to smoking. For instance, some individuals believe that the term 'vapor' should only be used to describe the chemical process of heating a substance, rather than the physical act of using it.

The Importance of Correct Terminology

The use of the correct terms can significantly impact public perception and the acceptance of vaping. By using the term vaper and understanding the distinction between smoke and vapor, advocates of vaping can ensure that discussions about smoking alternatives remain informed and accurate.

Moreover, the correct use of terminology can help bridge the gap between traditional smokers and vapers, fostering a more inclusive and evidence-based approach to discussing smoking cessation. Utilizing the term 'vaper' can also help to destigmatize the act of using e-cigarettes, which is crucial for encouraging individuals to consider vaping as a safer alternative to traditional smoking.

Conclusion

The term vaper has gained widespread acceptance due to its direct association with e-cigarettes and the act of vaporizing. Unlike the term vaporer, which might confuse or alienate those unfamiliar with the vaping community, the term vaper serves as a clear and concise descriptor. Understanding the distinction between smoke and vapor is crucial for anyone engaging in or advocating for the use of e-cigarettes. By using the correct terminology, we can promote a more informed and supportive environment for those considering a switch from traditional smoking to vaping.