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.
[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.
Ex"e*cute, v. i. 1.
To do one's work; to act one's part or purpose. [R.]
Hayward.
2. To perform musically.
