---
title: "Closed Captions"
canonical: "https://blitzreels.com/glossary/closed-captions"
---

# Closed Captions

URL: https://blitzreels.com/glossary/closed-captions
Markdown URL: https://blitzreels.com/glossary/closed-captions.md
Category: Captions & Subtitles

## Definition

Closed captions (CC) are on-screen text of a video's dialogue and important sounds that the viewer can turn on or off.

## Extended Definition

The CC icon in a video player means captions are available as a separate track, so the text is not part of the picture. A caption file such as SRT holds the words and their timing, and YouTube accepts SRT uploads. Captions can also describe sounds such as [applause], which helps viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Burned-in captions, also called open captions, are part of the picture and cannot be turned off. Short-form creators often burn captions in so they can style them and show them by default. For a long YouTube video, upload a caption file so viewers can switch the text on or off.

## FAQ

### What does CC mean in video editing?

CC stands for closed captions: text of a video's dialogue and sounds, stored separately so viewers can turn it on or off. In an editor, it usually means a caption track or file rather than text burned into the picture.

### What is the difference between closed captions and burned-in captions?

Closed captions can be turned on or off because they are a separate track. Burned-in captions, also called open captions, are part of the picture and always show. Burned-in captions can be styled by the creator.

### Are closed captions the same as subtitles?

Not quite. Captions include speech and important sounds for viewers who cannot hear the audio. Subtitles usually assume viewers can hear and only show dialogue, often translated. Many players use the two words loosely.

### How do I add closed captions on YouTube?

In YouTube Studio, open Subtitles, select the video, click Add language, then Add under Subtitles. You can upload a file such as SRT, use auto-sync, or type the captions manually.

## Next Step

[Edit a caption file](https://blitzreels.com/tools/srt-editor): Fix the text and timing of an SRT file in your browser, then upload it to YouTube.

## Related Terms

- srt-subtitles
- burned-in-captions
- auto-caption

## Search Terms

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