Assassinate/əˈsæsɪneɪt/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Political Act Assassinate often implies a political motive or context. The rebel leader was assassinated to prevent the coup. Pro Tip 2/3High-profile Target Targets are usually well-known figures like politicians or celebrities. The group planned to assassinate the visiting dignitary. Pro Tip 3/3Premeditated Action Assassination involves careful planning, not a spontaneous act. The assassination was the result of months of preparation.