A small canister (usually 8 or 16g) of nitrous oxide gas (N2O). Used officially in making whipped cream, but more often used recreationally to for its dissociative effects. If used properly and in moderation whippits are harmless. However, improper inhalation (e.g. wearing a mask or putting a bag over one's head) can lead to oxygen deprivation, and heavy use can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency. You'd have to be a complete moron to put a bag over your head in any situation, and the B12 deficiency is easily treated, so nitrous is a pretty safe drug.
Me: I knew someone whose 19 year old son died by using whippits. Apparently he put a plastic bag of the nitrous over his head.
Someone else: What an idiot.
Me: Yep, there's always someone who gives a safe drug a bad name.
(noun) Whippits are small metallic containers of nitrous oxide(laughing gas) intended for home use in whipped cream charging bottles. However, using a "cracker" and a large balloon, the user can open the whippit and release the gas into the balloon. The user then inhales the contents of the balloon for an amazingly intense, immediate, but albeit a short-term body and mind high. Typically referred to as "hippie crack". Sold in boxes of 12 or 24 in most headshops. Have fun!
Dude, this party is dead. You got any of those whippits left? I gotta cracker and some balloons in my car.