poppersEtymologyAmyl nitrites were originally sold in small glass ampoules wrapped in cloth. Recreational users would crush or "pop" these vials between their fingers to release their vapours, which is thought to be the origin of the slang term.poppers means drugs of the alkyl nitrate class used recreationally as a sexual stimulant, especially among gay men. Lexicurio rates it Sui generis — a strength score of 91 out of 100.nounDrugs of the alkyl nitrate class used recreationally as a sexual stimulant, especially among gay men.“Have I been doing too much poppers?”