capo

¹

[ key-poh ]

noun

, plural ca·pos.

1. any of various devices for a guitar, lute, banjo, etc., that when clamped or screwed down across the strings at a given fret will raise each string a corresponding number of half tones.
2. the nut of a guitar, lute, banjo, etc.

capo

²

[ kah-poh, kap-oh ]

noun

, plural ca·pos.

1. the chief of a branch of the Mafia.

capo

¹

/ ˈkapo; ˈkæpəʊ /

noun

1. the presumed title of a Mafia leader

capo

²

/ ˈkeɪpəʊ; ˈkæpəʊ /

noun

1. a device fitted across all the strings of a guitar, banjo, etc, so as to raise the pitch of each string simultaneously Also calledcapo tastoˈkæpəʊ ˈtæstəʊ Compare barré

Word History and Origins

Origin of capo¹

1875–80; < Italian, shortening of capotasto capotasto

Origin of capo²

1960–65; < Italian: head, leader < Vulgar Latin *capum for Latin caput; chief

Word History and Origins

Origin of capo¹

Italian: head

Origin of capo²

from Italian capo tasto head stop

Example Sentences

He was sanctioned 10 times for violating the order in his current case until he came up with the novel tactic of having his red-tied capos do the threatening for him.

From Salon

In his book, Mamet describes the leaders of these diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives as “diversity capos and “diversity commissars.”

From Los Angeles Times

These boys never formed a hierarchy with foot soldiers reporting to lieutenants, who sat under capos, and on and up.

From Salon

These witnesses and tape recordings confirm that the orders came from the top - from the boss or the capo, or the consigliere of the family.

From Salon

Drummers and capos guide those in the stands through energized chants that echo throughout the field as supporters dance and wave flags, which often match up with the games’ themed nights.

From Los Angeles Times