This paper surveys the literature on the use of dry friction in passive damping and vibration isolation. Several analytical techniques are presented followed by applications from various areas. Despite difficulties in the analytical and experimental treatment of friction damped systems, numerous studies have endeavored to predict, measure, and/or enhance the energy dissipation and vibration isolation properties of dry friction in order to improve system performance. Undoubtedly, friction damping will continue to play an important role in many mechanical and structural systems.