Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - executive

 I. adjective  Date: 1649  1.  a. of or relating to the execution of the laws and the conduct of public and national affairs  b. belonging to the branch of government that is charged with such powers as diplomatic representation, superintendence of the execution of the laws, and appointment of officials and that usually has some power over legislation (as through veto) — compare judicial, legislative  2.  a. designed for or relating to execution or carrying into effect ~ board  b. having administrative or managerial responsibility ~ director  3. of or relating to an ~ the ~ offices  II. noun  Date: 1774  1. the ~ branch of a government; also the person or persons who constitute the ~ magistracy of a state  2. a directing or controlling office of an organization  3. one that exercises administrative or managerial control