What is Pezzonovante?
1.
An Italian word, meaning "Big Shot."
The term is commonly misunderstood to mean any man in power; however, it is usually used pejoratively. In the Godfather, Michael uses the term to console his father who is upset because he had hoped that his son would achieve legitimate success like that of a Senator or President. Michael uses the term to assure his father that such people just think they are important men but in reality are no better than him.
My wife tells me I should be a Congressman instead of a gangster, but I know that a politician is just another pezzonovante.
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2.
An Italian word, meaning a man with power.
(from "The Godfather")
Vito Corleone: I never wanted this for you. ... I thought that when it was your time that you would be the one to hold the strings. Senator Corleone. Governor Corleone. Somethin'.
Michael Corleone: Another pezzonovante.
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3.
In Sicilian it derives from idiot or moron, but mostly used to show that someone is ignorant or misinformed, maybe even living a false life, not as themselves. Taken as an insult by Italians, especially by Calabrians and Sicilians.
Secco gabban de madre, pezzonovante -translation- go dry hump your mother, dumbass.
