The abilities, or attributes of characters in Dungeons & Dragons* are: strength, intelligence, wisdom, constitution, dexterity, and charisma. They are generated by rolling three six-sided dice.

Strength is the primary attribute of fighters. Intelligence is the primary attribute of magic-users. Wisdom is the primary attribute of clerics. Constitution is the combination of health and endurance. Dexterity involves speed and hand-eye coordination and is the primary attribute for thieves. Charisma is a combination of appearance, personality, leadership, and other similar characteristics.

See also: Dungeons & Dragons, D&D, D&D races, D&D classes, D&D alignments, AD&D

* These are specifically out of the rules for D&D, not Advanced Dungeons & Dragons.

Information taken from "Dungeons & Dragons," 1979, published by TSR Hobbies, Inc.