da capo (It., abbreviates to D.C.). From the head. A term meaning ‘Repeat from the beginning until you come to the word fine (end), or the pause mark (⩀).’ Sometimes the expressions da capo al segno (From the beginning to the sign) or da capo al fine (From the beginning to the word fine) are encountered; these are occasionally followed by e poi la coda, meaning that having arrived at the place indicated, the coda should immediately follow.

A da capo aria is one in which the first part is repeated, the singer being expected to add ornamentation in the repeated section.

da capo (mus.) direction to repeat from a certain point. XVIII. — It., da from, capo beginning (:- Rom. *capum, for L. caput head; see CHIEF).