Emily Dickinson Lexicon

assassin, n. [Fr. < L. < Arab. hashshāsh, hashish-eater, one who intoxicates himself with hemp plant in preparing to kill a king or public servant.] (webplay: God, surprise, unarmed).

1. Professional killer; murderer; one who kills by surprise or secret attack; gunman who shoots to kill.
2. Destroyer; finisher; means of termination or elimination.
3. Frost; [fig.] freezing temperatures; cold weather; conditions cold enough to kill plants.