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What Are Closed Captions (CC)? Definition and Examples
Closed captions (CC) are timed text overlays that viewers can toggle on or off, designed primarily for deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences.
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By Sumit DeyUpdated
Closed Captions, Explained
Closed captions, abbreviated as 'CC', are a form of captioning where the text is delivered separately from the video stream and can be toggled on or off by the viewer. They are stored either as a sidecar file (SRT, VTT, SCC) or as a separate track inside the video container. The 'closed' in closed captions refers to the fact that they are hidden by default until the viewer enables them. This contrasts with open captions, which are permanently burned into the video. CC includes all dialogue, speaker identification, and non-speech audio cues such as music and sound effects. The CC symbol, a white 'CC' inside a black rectangle, was standardized in U.S. television broadcasting and is now used across digital video platforms.
Closed Captions Examples
- YouTube's CC button at the bottom of the player.
- Netflix subtitles menu with [music], [door creaking], and speaker labels.
- Live TV broadcasts with the white-on-black CC indicator.
Terms Related to Closed Captions
Closed Captions, answered
How do I turn on closed captions?
On YouTube, press the CC button on the player or the C key on a keyboard. On most TVs and streaming apps, look for Subtitles and CC in the audio or accessibility settings while a video is playing.
Can I add closed captions to my own videos?
Yes. Upload an SRT or VTT caption file alongside the video on YouTube, Vimeo or your own player. Add sound cues in square brackets, like [music], so viewers who cannot hear still get the full picture.
What does CC stand for?
CC stands for 'closed captions', timed text that viewers can turn on or off through a player control.
Are closed captions the same as SDH?
They overlap but aren't identical. SDH (Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard-of-hearing) is typically used on Blu-rays and streaming as a hybrid: it translates language AND includes sound descriptions, while CC is usually same-language.
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