2 definitions found
From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) [web1913]:
Execute \Ex"e*cute\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Executed}; p. pr. &
vb. n. {Executing}.] [F. ex['e]cuter, L. executus, exsecutus,
p. p. of exequi to follow to the end, pursue; ex out + sequi
to follow. See {Second}, {Sue} to follow up, and cf.
{Exequy}.]
1. To follow out or through to the end; to carry out into
complete effect; to complete; to finish; to effect; to
perform.
Why delays His hand to execute what his decree Fixed
on this day? --Milton.
2. To complete, as a legal instrument; to perform what is
required to give validity to, as by signing and perhaps
sealing and delivering; as, to execute a deed, lease,
mortgage, will, etc.
3. To give effect to; to do what is provided or required by;
to perform the requirements or stimulations of; as, to
execute a decree, judgment, writ, or process.
4. To infect capital punishment on; to put to death in
conformity to a legal sentence; as, to execute a traitor.
5. Too put to death illegally; to kill. [Obs.] --Shak.
6. (Mus.) To perform, as a piece of music, either on an
instrument or with the voice; as, to execute a difficult
part brilliantly.
Syn: To accomplish; effect; fulfill; achieve; consummate;
finish; complete. See {Accomplish}.
From WordNet (r) 2.0 [wn]:
executed
adj : put to death as punishment; "claimed the body of the
executed traitor"