hit squad

American  

noun

Slang.

1. a team of hit men, as one organized for the purpose of assassinating a political figure.

2. a group of political terrorists.

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Etymology

Origin of hit squad

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

The 15-strong hit squad was travelling on diplomatic passports and included several of MBS’s own bodyguards.

From BBC • Aug. 19, 2024

“With this first-ever prosecution of an alleged member of Lukashenka’s hit squad we are sending a strong signal,” said Viasna lawyer Pavel Sapelko.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 30, 2023

“I don’t like the concept of stopping an investment of $110 billion into the United States,” Mr. Trump said just two weeks after Mr. Khashoggi, a Virginia resident, was killed by a Saudi hit squad.

From New York Times • Sep. 9, 2020

Tambadou’s decision to release members of Jammeh’s former hit squad, known as the Junglers, set off a fierce debate, which is playing out in market stalls and Facebook comments.

From Washington Post • Aug. 23, 2019

According to British sources Saudi Arabia may take as long as week to receive and respond to a Turkish government report expected to detail how Khashoggi was killed by a 15-strong Saudi hit squad.

From The Guardian • Oct. 19, 2018