executive Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun a person responsible for the administration of a business
executive director.
noun persons who administer the law
noun someone who manages a government agency or department
administrator.
adjective having the function of carrying out plans or orders etc.
- the executive branch

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.

An impersonal title of the chief magistrate or officer who administers the government, whether king, president, or governor; the governing person or body.