Ex*ec"u*tive (?), a. [Cf.F. exécutif.] Designed or fitted for execution, or carrying into effect; as, executive talent; qualifying for, concerned with, or pertaining to, the execution of the laws or the conduct of affairs; as, executive power or authority; executive duties, officer, department, etc.
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 or secures their due performance.
Ex*ec"u*tive, n. An impersonal title of the chief magistrate or officer who administers the government, whether king, president, or governor; the governing person or body.
Ex*ec"u*tive*ly, adv. In the way of executing or performing.
Ex*ec"u*tor (?), n. [L. executor, exsecutor: cf. F. exécuteur. Cf. Executer.] 1. One who executes or performs; a doer; as, an executor of baseness. Shak.