Dead load refers to the permanent static weight of a structure, including its materials and any fixed components. This can include elements like walls, floors, roofs, and any other structural parts that do not change over time. Understanding dead load is crucial for engineers and architects when designing buildings to ensure they can support their own weight safely. In construction, dead load is typically calculated in pounds per square foot (psf) or kilograms per square meter (kg/m²). It is an essential factor in structural analysis, as it helps determine the overall stability and strength of a structure, ensuring it can withstand various forces without collapsing.