1) Dead space refers to the volume of each breath that is inhaled but does not participate in gas exchange. There are different types of dead space including anatomic, alveolar, physiologic, and equipment dead space. 2) The term dead space is used inconsistently in clinical settings and literature due to different measurement methods and factors like intubation and ventilation methods. 3) Standardized terminology under existing standards organizations is suggested to reduce confusion and improve interpretation of dead space values reported in literature.