Ex`e*cu"tion (?), n. [F. ex'ecution, L. executio, exsecutio.] 1. The act of executing; a carrying into effect or to completion; performance; achievement; consummation; as, the execution of a plan, a work, etc.
The excellence of the subject contributed much to the happiness of the execution.
Dryden.
2. A putting to death as a legal penalty; death lawfully inflicted; as, the execution of a murderer.
A warrant for his execution.
Shak.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. That which is executed or accomplished; effect; effective work; -- usually with do.
To do some fatal execution.
Shak.
6. The act of sacking a town. [Obs.]
Beau. & FL.
© Webster 1913. | 
