# executor

/ɪɡˈzɛkjətɝ/ (US) · /ɛɡzˈɛkjuːtɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/executor
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a person or computer program that carries out a specific task or follows a set of instructions. In computing, it is often a small program that runs a larger one.

For teachers: a person or agent that carries out a task or follows a set of instructions. In a technical context, refers to a small program that executes a larger program or a specific command.

## Examples

- The executor runs the main program when you click the button.
- The operating system uses a small executor to manage the execution of complex applications without overloading the CPU.
- In distributed computing, the executor is responsible for maintaining the state of the application across multiple nodes, ensuring that tasks are completed even if one server fails.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.