I. ˈeksəˌkyüt, usu -üd.+V transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Middle English executen, from Middle French executer, back-formation from executeur executor (from Latin executor, exsecutor ), execution, and executoire executory (from Late Latin executorius, exsecutorius executory, putting into effect)
1. : to put into effect : carry out fully and completely : perform , effect
execute a purpose
execute the king's will
execute a dance step
execute a military maneuver
2. obsolete
a. : to give practical expression to (as a sentiment, a passion)
b. : to make use of (a weapon)
c. : to carry out (as a ceremony) : conduct
3. : to give effect to : do what is provided or required by
execute the provisions of a will
: perform the requirements of : perform the acts necessary to the effectiveness of
execute a decree
4. : to inflict capital punishment on : put to death in conformity to a legal sentence
executed him as a traitor
5. : to make or produce (as a work of art) especially by carrying out a design
a statue executed in bronze
execute a facade in red sandstone
6. : complete
execute legal instrument
: perform what is required to give validity to (as by signing and perhaps sealing and delivering)
execute a deed
7. : play
execute a piece of music
Synonyms: see kill , perform
II. verb
intransitive verb
1. : to perform properly or skillfully the fundamentals of a sport or a particular play
was blocking and tackling and executing just fine — D.S.Looney
2. of a computer program or routine : run 8b