Extracellular fluid, also known as ECF, is the fluid that surrounds cells in the body and fills the spaces between them. Synonyms for extracellular fluid include interstitial fluid, tissue fluid, and intercellular fluid. Interstitial fluid specifically refers to the fluid found in the spaces between cells, while tissue fluid is the fluid found within tissues. Intercellular fluid, on the other hand, refers to the fluid found within cells. Other synonyms for extracellular fluid include extracellular matrix, extracellular space, and extracellular solution. All of these terms refer to the fluid that exists outside of cells and plays an important role in maintaining the body's homeostasis.