execute
/ˈɛksɪˌkjuːt/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: executes · executing · executed
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To kill, especially as punishment for a capital crime.
Verb
Examples
There are certain states where it is lawful to execute prisoners convicted of certain crimes.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To carry out; to put into effect.
Verb
Examples
Your orders have been executed, sir!
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “execute” mean?
To kill, especially as punishment for a capital crime.
Is “execute” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.