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Webster's Dictionary (1865)

2 entries under this word

Executive

Ex-ē'cū-tive, a.

adjective

(egz- ĕk'yū-tĭv), a. [Fr. exécutif, Sp. executivo, It. esecutivo.] Designed or fitted for execution, or carrying into effect; as, executive talent; qualifying for, or pertaining to, the execution of the laws; as, executive power or authority; executive duties.

☞ In government, executive is distinguished from legislative and judicial; legislative being applied to the organ or organs of government which make the laws; judicial, to that which interprets and applies the laws; executive, to that which carries them into effect.

Ex-ē'cu-tive, n.

noun

n. The officer, whether king, president, or other chief magistrate, who superintends the execution of the laws; the person or persons who administer the government; executive power or authority in government.

☞ By the Constitution of the United States, the executive power is vested in the president, and this term is now commonly applied to him.