Vapes, e-cigarettes and ENDS: what the terms mean

Start with the vocabulary

An article may use vape, e-cigarette and ENDS within a few sentences. ENDS stands for electronic nicotine delivery systems. The FDA uses this umbrella term for products with a range of shapes and designs. E-liquid commonly includes nicotine, flavourings, propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin. FDA overview.

Names alone leave questions unanswered. When reading a report, distinguish the device being discussed from the substance it contains and the claim being made about it.

Liquid and aerosol are different

The liquid is heated to create an aerosol. CDC describes this as particles released into the air, not harmless water vapour. The word vaping refers to use of the device; it does not describe the aerosol’s complete contents. CDC explanation.

A short glossary of parts

Term	What it describes
Battery	The electrical power source.
Atomizer	A heating element that helps turn liquid into aerosol.
Cartridge, pod or tank	A container for the liquid; designs differ.

These are component descriptions, adapted from the CDC visual dictionary. They do not establish the condition or contents of an individual device.

Rechargeable does not mean refillable

CDC distinguishes disposable, refillable and prefilled-pod devices. Some disposables can be recharged but are not designed for refilling. These words describe different features. Current CDC device definitions.

Read descriptions without treating them as endorsements

For each unfamiliar term, ask: does it name a component, a substance, or a device category? Keep that answer separate from questions about health, regulation and disposal. A glossary can clarify a sentence; it cannot verify a product.

Continue with our guide to reading vaping claims or household disposal explainer.