capitano

noun

ca·​pi·​ta·​no

ˌkapəˈtä(ˌ)nō

plural capitani

-ä(ˌ)nē

or capitanos

: a vainglorious and cowardly soldier especially appearing as a stock character in the commedia dell' arte

Word History

Etymology

Italian, literally, captain, from (assumed) Vulgar Latin capitanus foremost, chief, from Latin capit-, caput head

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now