Execution

Definition

Execution refers to the act of carrying out or putting into effect a plan, order, or course of action. It also denotes the carrying out of a sentence of death on a legally condemned person.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɛksɪˈkjuːʃən/
• Respelling: ek-si-KYOO-shun

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɛksɪˈkjuːʃən/
• Respelling: ek-si-KYOO-shun

The pronunciation of "execution" is consistent in both American and British English, with emphasis on the third syllable.

Etymology

The word "execution" comes from the Latin word "executio," which means "a carrying out." It is derived from "exsequi," meaning "to follow out" or "to accomplish," which combines "ex-" meaning "out" and "sequi" meaning "to follow."

Derivatives

• Execute (verb)
• Executor (noun)
• Executioner (noun)
• Executable (adjective)
• Executed (adjective)

Synonyms

• Implementation
• Enforcement
• Enactment

Antonyms

• Failure
• Neglect
• Abandonment

Usage

The word "execution" is used in various contexts, including the legal field where it refers to carrying out a death sentence, in business or project management where it refers to the implementation of plans, and in technical contexts where it can refer to the running of software or commands.

Related Terms

• Capital punishment: The legally authorized killing of someone as punishment for a crime.
• Implementation: The process of putting a decision or plan into effect.
• Execution order: A legal document that authorizes the execution of a judicial sentence.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of carrying out a plan or order: The implementation or putting into effect of something.
  • Example: "The execution of the company's strategic plan was a success."
• The carrying out of a death sentence: The legal process of putting a person to death as a punishment for a crime.
  • Example: "The execution was carried out at dawn."
• The act of performing or enacting: The process of executing or performing an action or operation.
  • Example: "The dancer's execution of the routine was flawless."