Capotasto

/ˌkæpoʊˈtɑːstoʊ/ noun

Definition

A device, usually a clamp or bar, placed across the neck of a stringed instrument like a guitar to shorten all the strings equally and raise their pitch.

Etymology

From Italian capo tasto, literally 'head of the fret' (capo 'head' + tasto 'fret'). This Italian musical term was adopted directly into English.

Kelly Says

Musicians shortened 'capotasto' to just 'capo,' but the full term perfectly describes what it does—it acts as the 'head' of a new fret position on your instrument!

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