The first archaeological works the term was used as a collective name for the megalithic chamber tombs.
In the English archaeological literature, the term is outdated and is used for tombs, the original design of which can not be determined, or special types not included in the category of gallery or corridor tombs. In French, the term is still popular. In Portugal, the dolmens are usually called "anta" in Scandinavia - "dёs"; These words are part of the local names of the dolmens.
In Russia, traditionally called dolmens Western Caucasus (now and in the Urals), stone tile, composite and monolithic tombs. This also applies to similar facilities in other parts of the world.