DictionarycapoOrganizational leader
noun

capo

A leader or chief within an organization, especially the Mafia.

The capo oversees a crew and reports to the family's boss.

Etymology

Italian capo means head. As in English head of an organization, the body part supplies an image for the person who leads or directs a group.

More examples

  • Several capos attend the crime family's annual meeting.
  • The investigation focuses on a capo who controls local gambling.
  • Each capo gives orders to the members of his crew.

Forms

capo · capos

Similar words

boss
A broader term for someone in charge, including workplace supervisors.
leader
Applies to anyone directing a group, without suggesting organized crime.