In recent years, the term "Penjamin" has emerged from online communities and cannabis culture, sparking curiosity and carving out its own niche in the world of vaping. Far from a typo or a nod to a Founding Father, "Penjamin" represents a blend of innovation, slang, and a discreet approach to cannabis consumption. As of April 2, 2025, this term has evolved into a symbol of a growing trend in portable aromatherapy and vaping technology. So, what exactly is a Penjamin, and why has it captured attention?
The Origin of "Penjamin"
"Penjamin" is a portmanteau—a fusion of "pen" and "Benjamin." The "pen" part points to its sleek, pen-like design, reminiscent of a writing instrument, while "Benjamin" draws from slang for a $100 bill, hinting at its perceived value or premium quality. The term first gained traction in cannabis circles as slang for a vape pen, particularly one used for marijuana concentrates or oils. Early mentions can be traced back to social media platforms like Twitter (now X) around 2019, with users like @youngfishgod posting, "Just hit the penjamin franklin n I can’t stop eating out of the fridge," blending humor with the term’s playful vibe.
The name took off in the early 2020s, amplified by influencers and content creators like YouTuber Fulcrum, who in 2022 began using "Penjamin" to describe his dab pen experiences, introducing phrases like "double Penjamin city" to a wider audience. Since then, it’s become a catch-all for a specific type of vape pen—one that’s discreet, portable, and often tied to a youthful, irreverent subculture.
The Penjamin Device: More Than Just Slang
Beyond the slang, "Penjamin" has been adopted as a brand name by Smyle Labs™, a company that’s turned the concept into a tangible product. The Penjamin™ Cart Pen is a standout example: a 510-threaded cartridge battery disguised as a functional writing pen. Launched as an "aromatherapy" device (a common legal workaround for cannabis-related products), it’s compatible with 1g and 0.5g cartridges, features adjustable voltage settings, and includes a preheat function for smoother hits. What sets it apart is its dual-purpose design—you can unscrew it to write a note, then reassemble it to vape. It’s marketed as the ultimate stealth tool, blending seamlessly into a pocket or purse without raising eyebrows.
This innovation taps into a demand for discretion in an era where cannabis legalization is spreading but public use still carries stigma in many places. Priced around $25-$30, it’s accessible yet boasts a premium feel, aligning with the "Benjamin" nod to value.
Cultural Impact and the "Blinkerton" Connection
The Penjamin’s rise isn’t just about hardware—it’s a cultural artifact. On platforms like Reddit and TikTok, users have woven it into a lexicon of weed-related slang. A "Penjamin" often pairs with "Blinkerton," a term for taking a long hit until the vape’s light blinks, signaling an auto-shutoff. Posts like "On my way to Blinkerton, shall we?" from Reddit’s r/Destiny in 2022 show how the two have become a stoner shorthand for getting high. TikTok videos, amassing millions of views, depict teens and young adults coughing or zoning out after a "Penjamin" hit, cementing its place in Gen Z’s digital folklore.
This slang explosion reflects a broader trend: vaping’s shift from clunky devices to sleek, lifestyle-friendly gadgets. The Penjamin embodies that evolution, merging practicality with a cheeky identity that resonates online.
Why It Matters in 2025
As of now, the Penjamin trend shows no signs of slowing. Its appeal lies in its duality—functional yet fun, discreet yet bold. For some, it’s a gimmick; for others, a game-changer. Reviews are mixed: enthusiasts praise its stealth and style, while critics note that some units die quickly or feel overhyped. Still, its cultural footprint is undeniable, appearing in everything from vape shop shelves to viral memes.
Whether you see it as a clever vape pen or a fleeting fad, Penjamin has redefined how we think about cannabis consumption in the modern age. It’s not just a device—it’s a vibe, a statement, and a snapshot of where cannabis culture is heading in 2025.