executioner

[ ek-si-kyoo-shuh-ner ]

noun

1. an official who inflicts capital punishment in pursuance of a legal warrant.
2. a person who executes an act, will, judgment, etc.

executioner

/ ˌɛksɪˈkjuːʃənə /

noun

1. an official charged with carrying out the death sentence passed upon a condemned person
2. an assassin, esp one appointed by a political or criminal organization

Word History and Origins

Origin of executioner¹

First recorded in 1555–65; execution + -er ¹

Example Sentences

I decided from the start that I would only be the prosecutor, essentially, I would try my best to never be judge, jury and executioner, because I already had too much power in my hands.

From MIT Technology Review

When the executioners administered a sedative, midazolam, to John Grant, 60, as he was strapped to a gurney, he began seizing and vomiting, according to the Associated Press, which sent a reporter to witness the execution.

From The Daily Beast

The executioner Raikoh’s movements would be swift and sudden, yet his hair and armor would trail in ways that gave off a sense of flow.

From Washington Post

Virginia, on the other hand, was a prolific executioner for decades.

From Time

Your social media audience serves as the judge, jury, and executioner.

From Search Engine Watch

I Am An Executioner offers a fiercely creative—and deeply morbid—vision of what it takes to stay alive.

From The Daily Beast

"Princes are but princes, though I grant you the Executioner's Son is a good one," answered the priest.

From Project Gutenberg

He told the Executioner, he was a strong man, and Prayed to be put out of misery as soon as possible.

From Project Gutenberg

Charity begins at home, is the voice of the World; yet is every man his greatest enemy, and as it were, his own Executioner.

From Project Gutenberg

Executioner, constables, and sergeants, all thought their last hour was come.

From Project Gutenberg

There is a stranger of an Executioner chanced to be passing the road, just as I sent out, and he looking for work.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• firing squad