Definition & Meaning of "C clef"

What is a "C clef"?

A C clef is a musical symbol used to indicate that the note C is located on a specific line of the staff. The C clef can be placed on different lines, which makes it versatile for various ranges of music. The most common forms of the C clef are the alto clef, which places C on the middle line, and the tenor clef, which places C on the second line from the top. By marking the position of C, the C clef helps musicians read and interpret the pitches of other notes on the staff more easily, especially for instruments that play in those ranges.