D&D Lexicon: How has it evolved?

[Knightfall]

There are many physical things that make D&D iconic. Rulebooks, dice, character sheets, graph paper/battle grids, etc. But there is also a powerful lexicon that goes along with the game. Just say the words "hit points" or "character class," and it becomes obvious what would be the key words that define the game. Yes, it's easy to get lost in the jargon of the game during play but that is not what I'm getting at.

I'm talking the iconic terminology of Dungeons and Dragons. Those words that have their origin in the game or gained fame through the years since the game was first created.

And with the coming of 3rd and 4th edition, the D&D lexicon became more robust/cluttered depending on each gamer's point of view. I'm sure 5E will once again add to the list of iconic terms, but I'm not concerned about the future of the game with this post. I'm more interested in learning what you all think about the game's past.

How has the D&D lexicon evolved from its origins up to the end of 4e? What is the iconic terminology from each edition of the game and how has it influenced the next edition?

What should we remember fondly? What was better left behind? And, regardless, should it all be remembered as being vital to the history of the game?

Just trying to provoke a thoughtful discussion.

Cheers!

KF

 

[nedjer]

For me the lexicon is the game, as gameplay is structured and developed through the lexicon being put to use as/ through language.

Without a distinctive, fairly compact lexicon there are fewer common frames of reference, no machine code for running play at speed, more differences of interpretation . . . bit like putting porridge in a petrol tank.

 

[amerigoV]

Roll for initiative, Monkeyboy!

Screenjockey (DM)

Ghetto Crit (a 4e-ism)

HP, AC

 

[Cor Azer]

What the heck is a Baatezu?!?

 

[the Jester]

I for one am glad that THAC0 is an obsolete term (and system).