cappio

noose, loop

noun KAHP-pyoh Rare

Also means

slipknot

Usage Note

Cappio denotes a loop or slip knot that tightens under tension, most often a hangman's noose. Its plural is i cappi. Figuratively, essere in un cappio means to be trapped or cornered with no way out. Learners should note the double -p- in pronunciation and spelling; confusing it with capo (head/chief) is a common error.

Examples

"Il nodo formava un cappio attorno alla corda."

Natural Translation

The knot formed a noose around the rope.

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