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Assassin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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assassin

[əˈsæsɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

professional killer

An assassin is a person who is hired to kill someone, usually for political or financial reasons. Assassins are skilled in carrying out covert operations and eliminating their targets without being detected. They often work alone and are known for their precision and efficiency.

Synonyms

gunman, hitman, sniper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
assassin

Use this word when referring to someone who kills important people, often for political reasons or as part of a secret plan.

  • The assassin was caught before he could reach the president
  • The history book described the infamous assassin who changed the course of history
hitman

Typically used when referring to a person who is hired to kill someone, often in a criminal and secretive context.

  • The crime boss hired a hitman to take care of his enemies
  • The movie featured a hitman who had a change of heart
sniper

Use this word to describe a shooter who targets people from a long distance, usually in military or police operations.

  • The sniper was positioned on the rooftop to provide cover
  • During the battle, the sniper took out several key targets
gunman

This word is suitable for a criminal who uses a gun in a crime, often in the context of robberies or shootings.

  • The gunman demanded all the money from the cashier
  • The police warned about a gunman who was seen in the neighborhood

Examples of usage

  • The assassin was waiting for the perfect moment to take out the target.
  • She hired an assassin to eliminate her rival and secure her position in the company.
Context #2 | Noun

video game character

In video games, an assassin is often a character with stealth abilities and specialized skills in taking down enemies silently. Players can control the assassin character to complete missions and objectives without being detected.

Synonyms

operative, stealth character.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
assassin

Used to describe a person who is hired or trained to kill someone, usually for political or military reasons. The term has a negative connotation.

  • The assassin waited in the shadows, timing their strike perfectly
  • The king was killed by an assassin in the dead of night
stealth character

Commonly used in the context of video games or fiction, this term describes a character who relies on stealth and subterfuge to achieve their goals, avoiding direct confrontation.

  • In the game, the stealth character can sneak past guards and disable traps without being noticed
  • The stealth character moved silently through the hallways, undetected by anyone
operative

Refers to a skilled agent, often working in intelligence or espionage, involved in secretive and covert operations. It's a broader term and doesn't always imply killing.

  • The operative successfully infiltrated the enemy base and gathered critical information
  • As an experienced operative, she knew how to blend into her surroundings

Examples of usage

  • The assassin in the game can perform silent takedowns on enemies.
  • Players can choose to play as the assassin and complete assassination contracts.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'assassin' comes from the Arabic word 'Hashshashin', referring to a secretive group in the Middle Ages known for their targeted killings.
  • During the Third Crusade, the Hashshashin gained a reputation for their strategic and daring attacks against those they opposed.

Literature

  • The theme of assassination has been explored in various literary works, including Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar', where Brutus's betrayal leads to a significant political shift.
  • In modern literature, the concept inspires novels and series featuring skilled killers, such as in 'The Bourne Identity' and 'Kill Bill'.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and video games often portray assassins as mysterious, skilled individuals, with characters like Agent 47 from the 'Hitman' series becoming iconic for their stealthy methods.
  • Television shows like 'Killing Eve' depict the complex nature of assassins, blending intrigue with emotional stories.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that individuals who become assassins may possess specific personality traits, including higher levels of aggression and low empathy.
  • Social and environmental factors, such as upbringing and exposure to violence, can also play a crucial role in shaping someone into an assassin.

Technology

  • Modern technology has transformed how assassins operate, with drones and cyber capabilities allowing for remote targeting and operations.
  • Digital forensics now plays a significant role in uncovering assassination plots, utilizing data and surveillance tools to prevent potential threats.

Origin of 'assassin'

The word 'assassin' originates from the Arabic word 'hashshashin', which referred to a secretive group of Nizari Ismailis in the Middle East during the medieval period. These assassins were known for their covert operations and targeted killings. The word later entered the English language in the 16th century, retaining its association with hired killers.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,054, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.