Camorra

American  

[kuh-mawr-uh, -mor-uh, kah-mawr-rah] / kəˈmɔr ə, -ˈmɒr ə, kɑˈmɔr rɑ /

noun

1. a secret society of Naples, Italy, first publicly known about 1820, that developed into a powerful political organization and was later associated with blackmail, robbery, etc., until its destruction in 1911.

2. (lowercase) any similar society or group.

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Camorra British  

/ kəˈmɒrə /

noun

1. a secret society organized in about 1820 in Naples, which thrives on blackmail and extortion

2. any similar clandestine group

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Other Word Forms

• Camorrism noun

Etymology

Origin of Camorra

1860–65; < Italian < Spanish: dispute, quarrel (of uncertain origin)

Example Sentences

The difference is McCall is more uniquely suited to take on the Camorra.

From Seattle Times

Because of her reported Camorra connections, all her assets were seized, but she later owned two classy fashion stores in Naples.

From Washington Post

While female leaders are rare in the Sicilian Mafia, women in the Camorra have played top roles.

From Seattle Times

Police said Imperiale is a key figure in international drug trafficking and money laundering and has a close relationship with the Camorra mafia gang centred around the southern Italian city of Naples.

From Reuters

The artworks were discovered as part of a seizure of property from Imperiale and another reputed Camorra drug kingpin.

From Seattle Times