asesinó
“asesinó” means “murdered” in Spanish (He/She/It/You (formal) killed someone with malice).
murdered, assassinated
📝 In Action
La prensa reportó que el criminal asesinó a su víctima en la calle.
B2The press reported that the criminal murdered his victim in the street.
El espía creyó que nadie lo vio cuando asesinó al líder enemigo.
B2The spy believed no one saw him when he assassinated the enemy leader.
¿Usted asesinó a esa persona? Necesitamos saber la verdad.
B2Did you murder that person? We need to know the truth. (Formal 'you')
Word Connections
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: asesinó
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'asesinó'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
📚 Etymology
The root of this word comes from the Arabic term *hashshāshīn*, which referred to members of a secretive group in the Middle Ages known for committing political murders. It entered Spanish through medieval Latin, keeping the meaning of intentional, planned killing.
First recorded: Around the 13th century (in related forms)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'asesinó' and 'mató'?
Both mean 'killed' in the past. 'Mató' (from *matar*) is the general term for killing, often used in less formal or even figurative ways (e.g., 'the heat killed me'). 'Asesinó' (from *asesinar*) specifically implies killing with malice, planning, or political intent (murder/assassination). It is a stronger, more formal word.
Does 'asesinó' always refer to a person?
Yes, when used literally, it requires a human subject (he/she/you) and a human victim. Figuratively, you might sometimes hear it describing the destruction of an idea or opportunity, but this is rare.