execute

Definition

To kill, especially as punishment for a capital crime.

Etymology

From Old French executer (French exécuter), from Latin exsecutus, past participle of exsequor (“to follow (up/through)”, particularly in the sense “to go through with a deed or punishment”), from ex- (“out”) + sequor (“to follow”).

Example Sentences

• "There are certain states where it is lawful to execute prisoners convicted of certain crimes."
• "According to international treaties, it is illegal to execute prisoners of war."
• "Was not thy Father, Richard, Earle of Cambridge, / For Treaſon executed in our late Kings dayes?"