Definition & Meaning of "octave clef"

What is an "octave clef"?

An octave clef is a musical symbol used to indicate that the notes written on the staff should be played one octave higher or lower than their written pitch. This clef is often used to make music easier to read by shifting the pitch range to fit better on the staff. The octave clef does not have a standard symbol like the treble or bass clefs; instead, it is represented by an "8" written above or below the clef sign. For example, an 8 above the treble clef indicates that the notes should be played an octave higher than written, while an 8 below the bass clef indicates that the notes should be played an octave lower.