to carry out or put into effect something that has been planned or ordered
The engineers carefully executed the design to meet safety standards.
If we execute this marketing strategy well, sales will increase.
✦ From Latin “exsequi” meaning “to follow out, accomplish.”
to make a computer run a program or command
Double-click the icon to execute the software update.
The script executes automatically when the server restarts.
to perform or produce something, especially a skillful movement or artwork, with precision
The dancer executed a perfect pirouette on stage.
He executed the painting with remarkable detail.
to kill someone officially as punishment decided by a court
The judge sentenced the prisoner to be executed for his crimes.
Historically, people were executed for offenses that are no longer considered capital crimes.
to sign a legal document so that it becomes officially valid
Both parties must execute the contract before work can begin.
The will was executed in the presence of two witnesses.
