— executable , adj. — executer , n.
/ek"si kyooht'/ , v. , executed, executing .
v.t.
1. to carry out; accomplish: to execute a plan or order.
2. to perform or do: to execute a maneuver; to execute a gymnastic feat.
3. to inflict capital punishment on; put to death according to law.
4. to murder; assassinate.
5. to produce in accordance with a plan or design: a painting executed by an unknown artist.
6. to perform or play (a piece of music).
7. Law.
a. to give effect or force to (a law, decree, judicial sentence, etc.).
b. to carry out the terms of (a will).
c. to transact or carry through (a contract, mortgage, etc.) in the manner prescribed by law; complete and give validity to (a legal instrument) by fulfilling the legal requirements, as by signing or sealing.
8. Computers. to run (a program or routine) or to carry out (an instruction in a program).
v.i.
9. to perform or accomplish something, as an assigned task.
10. Sports. to perform properly the fundamental moves or mechanics of a sport, game, position, or particular play; show smoothness in necessary skills: We just didn't execute defensively.
[ 1350-1400; ME executen executer executare, deriv. of L executus, ptp. of ex ( s ) equi to follow up, carry out (punishment), execute; see EX- 1 , SEQUENCE ]
Syn. 1. achieve, complete, finish, consummate. 2. See perform. 3. See kill 1 . 7a . enforce, administer.