Category:Execute

Ex"e*cute, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Executed; p. pr. & vb. n. Executing.] Etym: [F. exécuter, 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.)

Defn: 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.

execute Ex"e*cute, v. i.

1. To do one's work; to act one's part of purpose. [R.] Hayward.

2. To perform musically.