tr.v. ex·e·cut·ed, ex·e·cut·ing, ex·e·cutes 1. To put into effect; carry out: a government that executes the decisions of the ruling party. 3. To create (a work of art, for example) in accordance with a prescribed design. 4. To make valid, as by signing: execute a deed. 5. To perform or carry out what is required by: execute the terms of a will. 6. To put to death, especially by carrying out a lawful sentence. 7. Computers To run (a program or instruction). [Middle English executen, from Old French executer, from Medieval Latin execūtāre, from Latin execūtor, executor, from execūtus, past participle of exequī, exsequī, to pursue, carry out : ex-, ex- + sequī, to follow; see sekw-1 in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] exe·cut′er n. |
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