Ex″e‐cute (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p.Executed (?); p. pr. & vb. n.Executing (?).] [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 stipulations 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. To put to death illegally; to kill. 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.