Bravo

Amazing.  I did not know thins.  I always thought “bravo” was a call of approval.  And it is in modern times.  Before the current meaning though it was an interjection used to show pleasure and admiration when someone, especially a performer, has done something well (https://www.etymonline.com/word/bravo). The word comes from the Italian word "bravo", which means "brave"2. In English, the word "bravo" was earlier used as a noun meaning "desperado, hired killer" (https://www.etymonline.com/word/bravo) In modern English, "bravos" is used as a plural noun to refer to a shout of approval, often used interjectionally in applauding a performance (https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bravo)
Of course the word my finger fell on in the dictionary was bravo as is hired killer.  I admit I don’t know many of them.  None actually.  Maybe I am better off examining one definition I saw which was a hired ruffian.
I do see examples of the sort.  People hired to encourage people think a certain way.  I see that sort of thing mostly at poling stations in some places.  People there at the behest of others to intimidate those participating in a process that has the potential to stop hirers getting their way.
Fortunately the worst problem I have seen in this country is the queues.  Even then things mostly move quickly and there are cakes and sausages and plants for sale if I want to purchase them.
Hired ruffian and killers seem to be employed mostly either by governments or gangs.  Unfortunately their brief is often quite broad.  That is, they are free to intimidate often to the point of killing.
One thing they are often sure of is protection by their hirer.  It is incumbent they get to a place of refuge.  It can be an embassy, country or safe house.   It does not matter really what form it takes.  It often means justice is thwarted. 
I have learned something.  Something I will be able to use over an over - NOT.  Still, it was an interesting exercise to me.