DEX

What is DEX short for in Dungeons & Dragons?

Dexterity

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:

  • Strength (STR)
  • Dexterity (DEX)
  • Constitution (CON)
  • Intelligence (INT)
  • Wisdom (WIS)
  • Charisma (CHA)

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.

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

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Updated November 6, 2020

DEX definition by Slang.net

This page explains what the abbreviation "DEX" means. The definition, example, and related terms listed above have been written and compiled by the Slang.net team.

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