Disney Dictionary

Last reviewed: October 2026

There are several terms used around Disney World Resorts and parks that you might not be familiar with. Here is my quick guide so you know what the heck I'm talking about:

Bounceback: A bounceback offer is a discount offered to guests that are currently staying on property at a Disney World resort. The discount can be used for a future Disney World trip. Anyone who is staying at Disney can call X8844 to find out what the current offer is, but you must book before checkout to take advantage.

Cast Member: Employees at Disney aren't just employees.. they are Cast Members. Everyone from the hotel staff to the ride operators are referred to Cast Members or CMs.

DVC: This stands for Disney Vacation Club. It is Disney's version of a time share that can be used at multiple Disney locations (even outside of Disney World).

Magic Band: If you are staying on Disney World property during your vacation you can purchase a wrist band that is used as your room key, park ticket, credit card, and Lightning Lane entrance key.

Magical Express: This was Disney's free airport shuttle. It ended on January 1, 2022. Today you can book Mears Connect, a paid shuttle from Orlando International Airport to your Disney resort.

Memory Maker and Photopass: These two terms are often used interchangeably (even by Disney at times). Photopass photos are the photos taken by Disney World photographers throughout the parks. Memory Maker is a photo package you can add to your vacation package. As of August 2026 it is $185 if you buy it in advance, $210 once your trip has started, or $75 for a single day. Annual Passholders can add photo downloads to a pass for $109 a year. Prices move, so check before you buy. You also get any ride photos and in a couple of cases you get a video of you on the rides. If you don't purchase Memory Maker you can purchase Photopass or ride photos individually.

Mousekeeping: This is Disney's housekeeping service.

My Disney Experience: This is the app you will use to monitor almost everything linked to your Disney trip. Hotel reservations, online check in, Disney Genie, Lightning Lane selection, restaurant reservations, photo pass photographers and photos, wait times and more can be found here.

Quick Service: This is a restaurant where you order at a counter and find your own seating.

Rider Switch: This is Disney's system for letting parents (or big riders) take turns riding while the other waits with a little one to small to ride.

Rope Drop: This term is used to describe park opening. Rope drop is simply when guests are allowed in to the park for the day.

Table Service: This is a restaurant where you sit down and are served by a waiter. Reservations are almost always required.

Touring Plan: Your daily plan for the parks.

Abbreviations

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See you at the parks,
-Julie