D&D Jargon Glossary for New Players
If you have ever heard someone say “roll a d20 for initiative” and felt lost, this guide is for you. These are the most common terms you will hear in a beginner game.
Core game terms
- DM (Dungeon Master): The storyteller and referee who runs the adventure.
- Player Character (PC): A hero controlled by a player.
- Non-Player Character (NPC): A character controlled by the DM.
- Campaign: A long-running story with the same characters.
- One-shot: A complete story finished in a single session.
- Session Zero: A short, prep session to set expectations, create characters, and align on tone before the adventure begins.
Dice and rolls
- d20: The 20-sided die used for most actions.
- d6 / d4: Six-sided and four-sided dice used for damage, healing, and certain spells.
- Ability Check: A roll to attempt something uncertain, like climbing or persuading.
- Saving Throw: A roll to avoid something bad, like a trap or spell.
- Advantage/Disadvantage: Roll two d20s and take the higher or lower result.
- DC (Difficulty Class): The target number you must meet or beat to succeed.
Character basics
- Class: Your character’s main role, like Fighter, Wizard, or Rogue.
- Background: Your character’s history before the adventure began.
- Ability Scores: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, Charisma.
- Proficiency: A bonus for skills you are trained in.
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Combat words you will hear
- Initiative: The order everyone takes their turn.
- Armor Class (AC): How hard you are to hit.
- Hit Points (HP): How much damage you can take.
- Attack Roll: A roll to see if you hit a target.
- Spell Slot: A limited resource that powers spells.
- Cantrip: A simple spell you can cast without using a spell slot.
Quick tip
If you forget a term, just ask. D&D is a cooperative game, and everyone wants new players to feel included.