Lingua-e
← Glossary

What does "execute" mean in programming?

execute is one of the most common terms in software development. This guide explains what it means, how it is used in practice, and why it matters, with real examples from the developer world.

Definition

To run a piece of code, script, query, or command. Developers say 'execute' when they want to be precise about code running, as opposed to just calling a function.

Example

"The database driver executes the SQL query and returns a result set."

Word forms

FormTypeMeaningExample
executeverb (infinitive)To run code or a command"The server will execute the query and return the results."
executedpast tenseRan code or a command"The migration was executed successfully."
executinggerundRunning code or a command"Executing multiple queries in parallel improves performance."

Can you put this sentence in the right order?

Tap the words to place them here

Keep building your technical English

You just looked up what this word means. Lingua-e turns vocabulary like this into full practice: fill-in-the-blanks, listening, and real developer conversations.

Practice this for free

Related terms

Was this page helpful?