a. [ Cf.F. exécutif. ] 1. 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. [ 1913 Webster ]

☞ 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. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. of or pertaining to an executive{ 2 } or to the group of executives within an organization; as, executive compensation increased more rapidly than wages in the 1980's; the executive suite. [ PJC ]

n. 1. An impersonal title of the chief magistrate or officer who administers the government, whether king, president, or governor; the governing person or body. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. a person who has administrative authority over an organization or division of an organization; a manager, supervisor or administrator at a high level within an organization; as, all executives of the company were given stock options [ PJC ]

adv. In the way of executing or performing. [ 1913 Webster ]