DEX
Dexterity
Example
Okay, my character's DEX modifier is ... -2. Is that bad?
Yup, it's pretty bad. Roll your Dexterity check
Marty McFly, succeeding on a DEX check
Related Slang
| DnD | Dungeons & Dragons |
| D&D | Dungeons and Dragons |
| DM | Dungeon Master |
| PC | Player character |
| STR | Strength |
| CON | Constitution |
| INT | Intelligence |
| WIS | Wisdom |
| CHA | Charisma |
| Dump stat | An ability that an RPG player doesn't prioritize |
Can you survive our Dungeons & Dragons slang quiz?
In Dungeons & Dragons (DnD), DEX is short for Dexterity. Dungeon Masters (DMs) and players may use DEX in place of Dexterity when discussing an in-game action that references a character's Dexterity score or modifier.
Each DnD character possesses six basic abilities that describe that character's physical and mental capabilities. These are:
Each ability has a numeric score and ability check modifier (such as +2 or -1) associated with it. Players reference these numbers when performing actions related to an ability.
For example, if a player attempts to pick a lock, their DM will ask them to make a Dexterity check to determine whether they are successful. The player then rolls a d20 and adds their DEX modifier to the result, hoping for a high total that reflects the lock giving way.
In forums, rulebooks, and virtual DnD-playing platforms, many players and DMs abbreviate Dexterity as DEX. So, in the example provided above, the DM might ask the player to make a DEX check, which is the same as a Dexterity check.