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.