auto-da-fé |
the public execution of such sentences, esp. the burning of heretics at the stake. [1/2 definitions] |
behead |
to cut off the head of, usu. as a means of execution. |
caption |
in law, the part of a legal document where the time, date, location, and authority of its execution are indicated. [1/4 definitions] |
craft |
to fashion or create with foresight and skill of execution. [1/7 definitions] |
crucifixion |
a method of execution in which the condemned person is tied or nailed to a cross. [2/3 definitions] |
cut corners |
to do something in an easier and more expedient manner, often at the expense of quality or care in its execution. |
death house |
a prison building where prisoners awaiting execution are housed, and where execution takes place. |
death row |
a part of a prison where prisoners awaiting execution are housed. |
death warrant |
an official authorization to carry out execution of a death sentence. [1/2 definitions] |
deathwatch |
one who keeps guard over a person condemned to execution. [1/3 definitions] |
entrust |
to assign or hand over to someone, as for care, protection, or execution. [1/2 definitions] |
execute |
to carry out an execution of; put to death. [1/4 definitions] |
gallows |
a high wooden frame to which one or more ropes for hanging criminals are attached. Only two states in the United States still use hanging as a form of execution. |
garrote |
a form of execution, used formerly in Spain, by which a metal collar was gradually tightened around the victim's neck. [2/5 definitions] |
gibbet |
a structure built for execution by hanging and for the public exhibition of those hanged, consisting of a vertical post to which a horizontal beam is attached at the top; gallows. [1/2 definitions] |
ingenious |
novel or creative in design or execution. [1/2 definitions] |
multitasking |
in computing, the execution of multiple tasks simultaneously. [1/2 definitions] |
operating system |
in computing, the software that controls and manages all aspects of a computer's operation, including the execution of application programs; the functioning of computer hardware; data input and output; the timing of and allocation of resources to the execution of multiple, simultaneous tasks; the physical storage and location of data; and computer security. Users interact with the operating system though a graphical user interface. |
pursuance |
the execution of a plan, procedure, or the like. |
Scheherazade |
in The Arabian Nights, a woman who escapes execution nightly by telling an unresolved tale to the Sultan. |
short shrift |
a brief time granted a condemned prisoner for confession or absolution before his or her execution. [1/2 definitions] |