Word Direct Answers

What does "execution" mean?

Execution: A putting to death as a legal penalty; death lawfully inflicted; as, the execution of a murderer. A warrant for his execution. Shak.

Additional senses

  1. 2.The act of the mode of performing a work of art, of performing on an instrument, of engraving, etc.; as, the execution of a statue, painting, or piece of music. The first quality of execution is truth. Ruskin.
  2. 3.(Law) (a) The carrying into effect the judgment given in a court of law. (b) A judicial writ by which an officer is empowered to carry a judgment into effect; final process. (c) The act of signing, and delivering a legal instrument, or giving it the forms required to render it valid; as, the execution of a deed, or a will.
  3. 4.That which is executed or accomplished; effect; effective work; -- usually with do. To do some fatal execution. Shak.
  4. 5.The act of sacking a town. [Obs.] Beau. & FL.

Sources