DictionaryRoot: sequi
Latin

sequi

follow

Forms

  • sequ-
  • secut- — Latin stem of the form meaning ‘having followed.’

Origin

Reconstructed Proto-Indo-European *sekw-, ‘follow.’

Note

Its Latin grammar looked passive even when the meaning was actively following.

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verb

execute

EK-sih-kyoot/ˈeksɪkjuːt/

To carry out an action with the required steps.

The technician executes the assembly plan by attaching the cart's final wheel.

A woman technician carrying out an assembly plan by fitting the final wheel onto a wooden cart, pictorial unlettered diagram beside her matching the finished cart.
Etymology

“Out” and “follow” combine in the image of following something out. This became carrying a course of action through, so executing a plan means putting it into effect.

In context

National Geographic31:42
… we are currently on our way to this place to execute a narcotics search warrant.
Caribbean Cargo & Illegal Meds (Full Episode) | To Catch a Smuggler

More examples

  • We executed the evacuation plan when the alarm sounded.
  • The dancers execute each turn with precision.
  • Both parties execute the contract by signing before a witness.

Forms

execute · executes · executed · executing

execution noun — The act of carrying something out.

Similar words

perform
Often emphasizes doing a task rather than following a plan.
implement
Emphasizes putting a plan or policy into practical use.