Execution \Ex`e*cu"tion\, n. [F. ex['e]cution, L. executio, exsecutio.]

1. The act of executing; a carrying into effect or to completion; performance; achievement; consummation; as, the execution of a plan, a work, etc.

The excellence of the subject contributed much to the happiness of the execution. --Dryden.

2. A putting to death as a legal penalty; death lawfully inflicted; as, the execution of a murderer.

A warrant for his execution. --Shak.

3. The act of the mode of performing a work of art, of performing on an instrument, of engraving, etc.; as, the execution of a statue, painting, or piece of music.

The first quality of execution is truth. --Ruskin.

4. (Law)
   (a) The carrying into effect the judgment given in a court of law.
   (b) A judicial writ by which an officer is empowered to carry a judgment into effect; final process.
   (c) The act of signing, and delivering a legal instrument, or giving it the forms required to render it valid; as, the execution of a deed, or a will.

5. That which is executed or accomplished; effect; effective work; -- usually with do.

To do some fatal execution. --Shak.

6. The act of sacking a town. [Obs.]

--Beau. & FL.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)