Crossword Genius

Mafia leader's way of raising the tone? (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

capo

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'mafia leader's' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for capo that I've seen before include "something to grip neck tightly" , "Leader of gang" , "Gangster boss" , "Mafia leader" , "Head honcho in Cosa Nostra" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app