pot
The word primarily evokes an image of containment—whether it is a physical vessel for soil or soup, or a conceptual accumulation of money in gambling. It suggests utility and basic functionality. In the context of cannabis, "pot" is a casual, slightly dated slang term. It lacks the clinical feel of "marijuana" or the modern, broad connotation of "weed," often evoking an era of counter-culture from the mid-to-late 20th century. When used as a verb for movement, it describes a specific rhythmic, plodding gait. This is far more niche and descriptive than its usage as a container, often implying a sense of quaintness or lack of urgency.
Countable when referring to physical containers like a ceramic flower pot or a cooking pot. Uncountable when referring to marijuana as a substance or the collective sum of money bet in a poker game.
💬Casual Conversation
We need to tap into the innovation pot for this project.
I'm still optimizing the resource utilization, Victoria. It's a complex synergy.
Meanings
A rounded container used for cooking, storing, or planting.
"She placed the flower in a terracotta pot."
Marijuana, especially when smoked.
"The police found a small amount of pot during the search."
The total amount of money bet in a poker game.
"He went all-in to win the entire pot."
To plant something in a pot.
"I need to pot these seedlings before it gets too cold."
Collocations & Compounds
flower pot
a container, typically made of clay, in which a plant is grown.
She kept the flower pot on the windowsill.
cooking pot
a deep, round container used for cooking food.
He put the stew in a large cooking pot.
tea pot
a pot with a lid, spout, and handle, used for brewing and serving tea.
The tea pot was still warm.
flower pot
a container, typically made of clay, in which a plant is grown.
She kept the flower pot on the windowsill.
flower pot
a container, typically made of clay, in which a plant is grown.
She kept the flower pot on the windowsill.
Phrasal Verbs
pot up
to move a plant from one pot to a larger one.
It's time to pot up the seedlings.
Idioms & Sayings
pot luck
a meal or party to which each guest brings a dish to share.
We're having a pot luck dinner on Saturday.
pot calling the kettle black
used to describe a situation where someone accuses another person of something that they themselves are also guilty of.
He complained about her lateness, but it was a case of the pot calling the kettle black.
bottom of the pot
the very lowest or worst part of something.
He felt like he was at the bottom of the pot.
stir the pot
to deliberately cause trouble or make a situation worse.
He enjoys stirring the pot in meetings.
in the pot
involved in a particular situation or activity, often one that is difficult or risky.
We have too many people with their fingers in the pot.