A pair of dice is a set of two dice of identical shape and size that are used to produce random numbers. The faces of the die are numbered 1 through 6. In common usage, the term “pair of dice” is often used to mean “a roll of the dice”.

The sum of one die roll is the number on its face plus one. The sum of two die rolls is the sum of their faces. For example, (1 + 3) = 4, (2 + 3) = 5, (1 + 2 + 3) = 6, and so on. If each side were labeled with a different digit or symbol instead of a number, then the two values would be added together in these same ways.

A pair of dice can be thrown simultaneously by hand or in a cup to achieve randomness in results. The throwing technique has changed considerably over time. Modern Western throws are usually made with one hand from above the head downwards close to the ear while Eastern throws traditionally use both hands held at waist level with arms extended upwards and palms facing downwards towards the ground.

In craps or hazard games where players bet against the casino rather than each other, dice are rolled by hand onto a table.

Last modified: August 2, 2022