executive function

American  

[ig-zek-yuh-tiv fuhngk-shuhn] / ɪgˈzɛk yə tɪv ˈfʌŋk ʃən /

Also executive functioning

noun

1. a set of cognitive skills used to control one’s thoughts and behavior, especially the skills needed to focus on and organize tasks.

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Etymology

Origin of executive function

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

So much aspirational frugal cooking quietly assumes you have endless time, energy and executive function to devote to homemade bread, all-day braises and deeply involved kitchen projects.

From Salon • May 19, 2026

These networks play an important role in social thinking and executive function.

From Science Daily • Apr. 9, 2026

My husband’s memory is still good, but he has lost some executive function and his physical condition is limited.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

Habits under pressure reveal readiness: a student who asks a clarifying question instead of freezing, repairs a mistake without spiraling and a parent who works with the school to build executive function.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 17, 2025

Where the legislative and executive function of the law are in the hands of a single class, special law, or special renderings of law are the unvarying results.

From An Account of the Proceedings on the Trial of Susan B. Anthony, on the Charge of Illegal Voting by Anonymous