executive

[ig-zek-yuh-tiv]

noun

1. a person or group of persons having administrative or supervisory authority in an organization.

2. the person or persons in whom the supreme executive power of a government is vested.

3. the executive branch of a government.

adjective

1. of, relating to, or suited for carrying out plans, duties, etc..

   executive ability.

2. pertaining to or charged with the execution of laws and policies or the administration of public affairs: executive committees.

   executive appointments;

   executive committees.

3. designed for, used by, or suitable for executives.

   an executive suite.

executive

/ ɪɡˈzɛkjʊtɪv /

noun

1. 1. a person or group responsible for the administration of a project, activity, or business

   2. ( as modifier )

      executive duties

      an executive position

2. 1. the branch of government responsible for carrying out laws, decrees, etc; administration

   2. any administration Compare judiciary legislature

adjective

1. having the function or purpose of carrying plans, orders, laws, etc, into practical effect

2. of, relating to, or designed for an executive

   the executive suite

3. informal,  of the most expensive or exclusive type

   executive housing

   executive class

Other Word Forms

• executively adverb
• executiveness noun
• nonexecutive adjective
• proexecutive adjective
• semiexecutive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of executive¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Medieval Latin execūtīvus; equivalent to execute + -ive

Example Sentences

Writing on X, Cindy McCain, executive director of the World Food Program, said the group was “on the ground and ready to scale up operations.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Kimmel had planned to clarify his remarks Sept. 17, but Disney executives feared the comedian was dug in and would only inflame the tense situation.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

His executive order Wednesday also instructed the U.S.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Examine, if you will, the list of the country’s chief executives, from George to Donald.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Their front office is helmed by president of baseball operations David Stearns, one of the most heralded executives in the sport.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• administration 
• administrator 
• boss 
• chief 
• commander 
• director 
• entrepreneur 
• government 
• leader 
• management 
• manager 
• officer 
• official 
• supervisor