capo

In a musical context, this term refers to a physical tool used to alter the pitch of a guitar or similar instrument. It is a technical term used by musicians and is neutral in tone. It allows a player to use familiar chord shapes while playing in a higher key.

In the context of organized crime, the term is a loanword from Italian meaning captain. It denotes a specific rank within a rigid hierarchy, specifically the middle management between the soldiers and the underboss. This usage is almost exclusively found in crime fiction, legal reports, or discussions regarding the Mafia and carries a connotation of illicit authority and power.