The 2026 Vaping Glossary: Every Essential Term Explained Simply

Pod, mesh, steeping, MTL draw… Vaping has a rich vocabulary of its own, built over more than fifteen years of innovation and exchange between enthusiasts. For a newcomer, these terms can seem mysterious. Yet they describe simple notions that help you choose your equipment and e-liquids with greater confidence. At myGeeko, we believe an informed vaper enjoys the experience to the fullest. This glossary gathers the essential words of vaping in 2026, organised by theme: the device, e-liquids, the coil, the draw, the settings and everyday expressions. Keep it close at hand: it will accompany you through every discovery, in store and online.

Where does this vocabulary come from?

The vaping lexicon grew naturally, shaped by successive generations of hardware and by conversations between users around the world. English plays a central role: the first forums and communities developed internationally, and some terms never found an equivalent quite as precise in other languages. Other words come from technology itself, such as ohm or wattage, borrowed from the language of electronics. This diversity is part of vaping culture's charm: every term tells a chapter of its history. By 2026, the vocabulary has settled and simplified, much like the equipment itself, which has never been more accessible. The good news: a few minutes are enough to master the essentials.

The device: kit, pod and box

Let us start with the hardware itself. Each family of devices has its own characteristics and its own dedicated vocabulary.

• Kit: the ready-to-use bundle combining battery, tank and coil. The ideal solution for starting out or travelling light.
• Pod: a compact device whose tank takes the form of a removable cartridge. Discreet, simple and elegant.
• Box: a more generous format, fitted with a screen and advanced settings. The favourite choice of customisation enthusiasts.
• Clearomiser: the transparent tank that holds the e-liquid and houses the coil.
• Drip tip: the mouthpiece, available in many materials and shapes to suit every preference.
• Removable battery: the swappable cell used by certain boxes, always carried in its dedicated case.

These elements combine to form your configuration of the moment, which regulars affectionately call their setup.

E-liquids: PG, VG and maturation

E-liquid has a dictionary of its own. A few reference points are enough to read a label with confidence and build a collection that reflects your taste.

• PG, propylene glycol: the fluid base that carries flavours with precision and clarity.
• VG, vegetable glycerine: the smooth base that produces dense, soft vapour.
• PG/VG ratio: the balance between these two bases, expressed in percentages, which shapes the character of every bottle.
• Nicotine salts: a modern form of nicotine, appreciated for its roundness in pod systems.
• Steeping: the maturation of an e-liquid, giving flavours time to harmonise after production or opening.
• All-day: the nickname given to an e-liquid so well balanced that you enjoy it from morning to evening.

Keen to go further? Our guides on the PG/VG ratio, nicotine salts and steeping explore each of these worlds with practical advice.

The coil: the heart of the vapour

The coil transforms e-liquid into vapour. It is the centrepiece of every device, and the part that most directly influences flavour.

• Ohm: the unit measuring a coil's resistance value. It guides the choice of power and vaping style.
• Sub-ohm: refers to coils below one ohm, designed for generous, airy vapour.
• Mesh: a finely perforated metal grid that heats evenly and reveals flavours faithfully.
• Cotton: the fibre that carries e-liquid to the heating element, ensuring a steady supply.
• Priming: the habit of soaking a new coil before first use, for perfect flavour from the very first puff.

Replacing your coil regularly means rediscovering the freshness and intensity of day one, every time. Our dedicated coil guide walks you through it step by step.

The draw: MTL, DL and sensations

The draw describes how vapour is inhaled. Two main families structure the experience, with an intermediate nuance that has become very popular.

• MTL, mouth to lung: an indirect, tighter draw, close to the traditional gesture. Vapour rests in the mouth before being inhaled.
• DL, direct lung: a direct, airy inhale that favours vapour volume and flavour freshness.
• RDL, restricted direct lung: the in-between, a slightly tightened direct draw, much appreciated in 2026 for its versatility.
• Airflow: the ring that adjusts the air intake and lets you switch from one style to another in a single gesture.

Our MTL or DL guide helps you identify the style that suits you. The beauty of modern hardware: many devices now handle both with ease.

Settings and features: tailor-made vaping

The devices of 2026 offer refined features, inherited from several generations of innovation. Knowing their names means unlocking their full potential.

• Wattage: the power delivered, expressed in watts, finely adjustable on many models.
• Auto-draw: activation by inhalation, without a button, for a natural and intuitive gesture.
• Puff counter: the tally of puffs taken, handy for following your rhythm and planning refills.
• Lock: the safety feature that secures the device in a pocket or bag, activated in a few clicks.
• Profiles: saved settings that adapt to each e-liquid or each moment of the day.

Connected models go even further, with built-in screens and companion apps: our article on connected vaping is entirely devoted to them.

Expressions of the regulars

Finally, a few expressions flourish in conversations between vapers. They reflect a living, friendly and creative culture.

• Setup: the complete configuration of the moment, device, coil and e-liquid included.
• Rotation: the habit of alternating several flavours through the week to keep the pleasure fresh.
• Wicking: the art of positioning cotton perfectly in rebuildable setups.
• Cloud chasing: the playful discipline of experienced enthusiasts who sculpt spectacular vapour.

This vocabulary evolves every year, carried by a curious and inventive community. Knowing it means joining a worldwide conversation that keeps growing richer.

A glossary that stays with you

Mastering these terms means gaining autonomy: understanding a product sheet at a glance, chatting easily with fellow enthusiasts and building a setup that truly reflects you. This glossary is not an exam: dip into it as needed, at the pace of your discoveries. Come back whenever a notion escapes you; it will always be here. The myGeeko team remains available to clarify any term and point you towards the equipment and e-liquids suited to your style. Happy exploring, and welcome to the great conversation of vaping.

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