Meaning & Definition of word "Assassin"

Assassin

/əˈsæsn/

noun:

  • 1. A person who murders an important person for political or religious reasons.
    • Example: The historical account details how the assassin evaded capture after killing the king.
  • 2. A person hired to kill someone, often as part of a conspiracy.
    • Example: The film revolves around a hired assassin who begins to question his morals.
  • 3. A member of a secretive sect known for political killings in the Middle Ages.
    • Example: The legend of the assassin sect illustrates the complexities of loyalty and betrayal.

Etymology

From Arabic 'hashshāshīn', referring to a group of secret assassins.

Common Phrases and Expressions

contract assassin:

A hired killer.

political assassin:

A person who kills for political reasons.

assassination attempt:

An effort made to kill someone.

Related Words

murder:

The unlawful premeditated killing of one human being by another.

hitman:

A person who is paid to kill someone.

assassination:

The act of killing someone for political or ideological reasons.

Slang Meanings of assassin

Meaning: A secretive killer or hitman.

Example Sentence: He's known as a ghost, an assassin who leaves no trace.

Meaning: Someone who is very skilled at a specific task, often used in gaming.

Example Sentence: In the game, she plays the role of an assassin, taking out targets stealthily.