DCL stands for Data Control Language, which is a subset of SQL commands used to manage database security and access control. DCL commands are used to control access to data stored in a database, and they deal with rights, permissions, and other controls. Examples of DCL commands include GRANT, which allows specified users to perform specified tasks, and REVOKE, which removes user accessibility to a database object. The operations for which privileges may be granted to or revoked from a user or role apply to both the Data Definition Language (DDL) and the Data Manipulation Language (DML), and may include CONNECT, SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE, EXECUTE, and USAGE. DCL commands ensure that only authorized users can access and modify the database.