Definition of “DoT” in League of Legends?

DoT, short for Damage Over Time, describes effects that inflict damage gradually rather than in a single impactful hit. These effects can come from abilities, item passives, or environmental hazards and are especially threatening during extended skirmishes. Because DoT continues to apply after the initial cast, it forces opponents to use Sustainability tools, defensive cooldowns, or smart repositioning to minimize the ticking damage.

DoT damage contrasts sharply with Burst damage, which eliminates targets quickly, and it often shapes how champions approach fights. Some champions specialize in prolonged engagements where consistent DoT pressure excels, while others struggle against it due to limited healing or mobility. Properly recognizing DoT threats allows players to manage their health, choose safer paths during Roam rotations, and avoid overcommitting into dangerous areas.