Mafioso Lingo

case, to: to check out a location prior to committing a crime.

chased: the rare occasion when someone is banished from the Mafia without being whacked.

clean (adj.): no carrying a weapon.

cleaning: taking the necessary precautions to avoid being followed while moving around.

clip: to murder, or to take money from.

clock: to keep tabs on someone's activities, comings and goings, etc.

comare: the mistress of a Mafioso.

come in: To go see the boss when summoned. Usage:

Commission, The: the "official" name of the Mafia. A National Crime Syndicate, comprised of the bosses of all the Families. It was set up by Charles, Lucky Luciano in 1931 to end the reign of the Mustache Petes.

compare: Italian for "Godfather", used here to designate a close friend.

connected: an associate of the Family.

consigliere: the counselor, or advisor of the crime Family. Often the diplomat who settles the arguments.

contract: a murder contract.

cop: to steal.

Cosa Nostra: Italian for "this thing of ours," or "our thing," often used as a synonym for the Mafia.

crew: a group of mafia soldiers that takes orders from the capo.

cugine: a young thug who is trying to impress the Family so he can become a made man.

do a piece of work: to murder someone.

Don: The head of the family. he is the only one who grants permission to whack or make someone, and he profits from all Family operations.

earner: someone who makes money for the Family.

empty suit: someone who likes to hang around mobsters, but does not have any special talents to offer the Family.

enforcer: the person who enforces mob law, threatens to bust kneecaps, etc.

envelope: a cash payment.

fence: someone with worldwide outlets to liquidate illicit goods.

finger, to: to rat out someone, or mark for murder.

friend of mine: expression used when vouching for someone.

Fugazi: counterfeit.

Gaff: a phoney

gavone: a blundering individual who embarrasses himself and others by putting his foot in his mouth, or behaving in a tactless manner.

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