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

Teresa Ribera, executive vice president of the Commission, said in a statement on Friday the regulator had factored in previous findings of Google's anti-competitive conduct when deciding to levy a higher fine.

From BBC

"It is clear there is a need to maintain and improve these important buildings whilst also enhancing the environmental sustainability of these venues," said Dafydd Rhys, chief executive of the Arts Council of Wales.

From BBC

Anthony Allman, executive director of Vets Advisory, a nonprofit created to monitor the the 2011 settlement, proposed a VA collaboration with the community colleges to build housing for the veterans attending them.

From Los Angeles Times

The responsibility of creating executive departments rests with the US Congress, meaning that an amendment would be required to legally change the department's name.

From BBC

Tottenham Hotspur's executive chairman Daniel Levy - who has "stepped down" after almost 25 years - will always be regarded as one of the most contentious figures in their history.

From BBC

Related Words

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