New terminology used to describe track ratings for Australian racecourses will be introduced later this year.

In an Australian Racing Board move designed to put the system of racetrack ratings into layman's terms, traditional descriptions such as fast, dead and slow will be removed from the racing vernacular.

In their place will be ratings of firm, good and soft.

The numerical system of rating tracks will be retained on a 1-10 scale.

A track rated at No.1 will be dry and hard while a No.10 category surface will be wet, to the point of saturation.

"The Board decided to modernise the language for track ratings to be more easily understood by punters especially young people," an ARB statement said.

Racing officials will put the revised system into operation on December 1.

"The delay in introduction is due to the need to backdate track conditions so as to accurately record a horse's performance," the ARB said.

"The historical data is essential information to punters."