executions
|ex-e-cu-tions|
🇺🇸
/ˌɛksɪˈkjuːʃənz/
🇬🇧
/ˌɛksɪˈkjuːʃ(ə)nz/
(execution)
carrying out (an act)
Etymology
'execution' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'exsecutio' (from 'exsequi'), where the prefix 'ex-' meant 'out' and 'sequi' meant 'to follow'.
'execution' entered English via Old French 'execution'/'executioun' and Middle English, eventually becoming the modern English word 'execution'.
Initially, it meant 'the act of following out or carrying out (an action)', and over time evolved to include the specific sense of 'carrying out a sentence (especially death)' as well as 'the act of performing or implementing something'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the carrying out of a sentence of death on a condemned person; the act of putting someone to death as a punishment.
Executions for certain crimes have been suspended pending a review of the justice system.
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Noun 2
the act of carrying out or performing a task, plan, order, or duty; implementation or performance of an action.
The project's executions were handled by three different teams working in parallel.
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Noun 3
the formal completion of a legal document (e.g., signing and making it legally effective).
The executions of the contracts took place at the notary's office yesterday.
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Last updated: 2025/12/20 00:14