noun Uncommon

dex

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Dex (noun) means Short informal term for dexterity, especially a character's skill stat in video games and tabletop RPGs. Example: “She put most of her points into dex so her rogue could dodge attacks.”

noun

Short informal term for dexterity, especially a character's skill stat in video games and tabletop RPGs.

"She put most of her points into dex so her rogue could dodge attacks."

Slang shorthand for a stimulant drug such as dextroamphetamine, or for the cough suppressant dextromethorphan.

"The label warned against mixing dex with alcohol."

How to use dex

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishGamer slang for dexterity, or informal slang for certain stimulant/cough-suppressant drugs.

When to use it

Informal in all senses; the gaming sense is common in chat and forums, the drug senses are casual slang best avoided in formal or medical writing.

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: dexes

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

She put most of her points into _____ so her rogue could dodge attacks.

Etymology

A clipped form — the games sense shortens "dexterity," while the drug senses shorten "dextroamphetamine" or "dextromethorphan."

Frequently asked questions

What does “dex” mean?

The word “dex” means short informal term for dexterity, especially a character's skill stat in video games and tabletop RPGs. In plain terms, gamer slang for dexterity, or informal slang for certain stimulant/cough-suppressant drugs.

How do you use “dex” in a sentence?

Here is “dex” used in a sentence: “She put most of her points into dex so her rogue could dodge attacks.”

What part of speech is “dex”?

“Dex” is a noun.

Is “dex” a common word?

“Dex” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “dex” have?

“Dex” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: short informal term for dexterity, especially a character's skill stat in video games and tabletop RPGs.

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