# Dex

/ˈdɛks/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dex
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a short way of saying 'dexterity' in games or 'dextroamphetamine' in medicine. It usually refers to how fast or skillful a character is in a video game. In cryptocurrency, DEX is short for a decentralized exchange: a platform that lets people trade crypto peer-to-peer, without a company holding their funds.

For teachers: a clipped form of 'dexterity' or 'dextroamphetamine', depending on the domain. In gaming contexts, it refers to a character attribute governing agility and precision; in medical slang, it refers to a specific stimulant medication.

## Examples

- I need to increase my dex to use this bow.
- The player decided to put all their level-up points into dex to ensure their character could dodge incoming attacks more effectively.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used as a jargon term in role-playing games (RPGs) and medical contexts; rarely used in formal writing.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.