executioner

ex-e-cu-tion-er · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A person who carries out a death sentence on a legally condemned person.

  2. 2.

    (Figurative) A person who kills or destroys.

Forms

plural: executioners

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    public executioner — an official who carries out death sentences
  • •
    act as executioner — to carry out punishment or destruction

Related words

See also: death penalty, execute, execution, hangman
Synonyms: hangman, headsman

Etymology

From "execution" + "-er" (agent suffix), from Latin "executio" (accomplishment, carrying out of a sentence). First used in English in the 16th century.