assassin
UK: əˈsæsɪn | US: əˈsæsɪn
n. a person who murders a prominent figure, often for political or religious reasons
n. (historical) a member of a secret order of Nizari Ismailis in the 11th–13th centuries, known for carrying out targeted killings
The word "assassin" traces back to the Arabic "ḥashshāshīn" (حشاشين), meaning "users of hashish." It referred to the Nizari Ismailis, a medieval sect whose members were reputed to use hashish before missions. Through Old Italian ("assassino") and French ("assassin"), the term evolved to denote any hired or ideological killer, losing its original drug-related connotation but retaining the violent implication.
The spy novel featured a skilled assassin who eliminated targets with precision.
Historical records describe the assassins as fearless warriors loyal to their leader.
The politician survived an assassination attempt by a lone assassin.
Legends claim the assassins operated from hidden mountain fortresses.
Modern video games often portray assassins as stealthy, agile fighters.