Definition of "execute" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To kill, especially as punishment for a capital crime.

   • There are certain states where it is lawful to execute prisoners convicted of certain crimes.
   • According to international treaties, it is illegal to execute prisoners of war.

2. (transitive) To carry out; to put into effect.

   • Your orders have been executed, sir!
   • I'll execute your orders as soon as this meeting is adjourned.

3. (transitive) To perform.

   • to execute a difficult piece of music brilliantly
   • to execute a turn in ballet

4. (transitive, law) To carry out, to perform an act; to put into effect or cause to become legally binding or valid (as a contract) by so doing.

   • to execute a contract

5. (transitive, computing) To start, launch, or run.

   • to execute a program

6. (intransitive, computing) To run, usually successfully.

   • The program executed, but data problems were discovered.