Tobacco smoking

Tobacco smoking (pronunciation: təˈbækoʊ ˈsmoʊkɪŋ) is the act of inhaling and exhaling the smoke produced by burning tobacco in a pipe, cigar, or most commonly, a cigarette. The practice is believed to have begun as early as 5000–3000 BC in Mesoamerica and South America.

Etymology

The term "tobacco" originates from the Spanish and Portuguese word "tabaco". The exact origin of the word is still unknown, but it is believed to have been derived from Taino, the Arawakan language of the Caribbean and South America. The term "smoking" comes from the Old English "smoca", meaning "to emit smoke".

Related terms

Nicotine: An addictive substance found in tobacco. It stimulates the release of dopamine in the pleasure areas of the brain.
Secondhand smoke: Also known as passive smoke, it is the involuntary inhalation of smoke from tobacco products. It is produced by a burning tobacco product or exhaled by a person who is smoking.
Smoking cessation: The process of discontinuing tobacco smoking.
Tobacco control: A range of actions to limit tobacco use and its related health effects.
Lung cancer: A type of cancer that begins in the lungs. It is the most common cause of cancer death worldwide, and tobacco smoking is the most significant risk factor.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A type of obstructive lung disease characterized by long-term breathing problems and poor airflow. The primary cause is tobacco smoking.