executive function

American  

[ig-zek-yuh-tiv fuhngk-shuhn] / ɪgˈzɛk jə 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

See Examples For:

executive function

Participants also underwent assessments covering several areas of cognition, including language, memory, executive function, and visuospatial ability.

From Science Daily ● Sep. 14, 2026

Physical activity and movement, like playing freeze tag or shooting hoops during recess, can improve information processing, executive function, attention, and memory, research suggests.

From Slate ● Sep. 5, 2026

"They can improve executive function, attention and memory. And it helps people feel more relaxed and fresh."

From BBC ● Jun. 23, 2026

Moderate exercise has been shown to improve learning among students from elementary school through young adulthood, and the effects on attention, memory and executive function are well-documented, pediatricians say.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 18, 2026

Its legislative, not its executive, function is the whip which coerces the Secretaries.

From Congressional Government A Study in American Politics by Woodrow Wilson