exec

exec: /eg-zek'/ or /eks'ek/ vt., n.  1. [UNIX from
   `execute'] Synonym for {chain}, derives from the
   `exec(2)' call.  2. [from `executive'] obs. The command
   interpreter for an {OS} (see {shell}); term esp. used
   around mainframes, and prob. derived from UNIVAC's archaic EXEC 2
   and EXEC 8 operating systems.  3. At IBM and VM/CMS shops, the
   equivalent of a shell command file (among VM/CMS users).

   The mainstream `exec' as an abbreviation for (human) executive is
   *not* used.  To a hacker, an `exec' is a always a program,
   never a person.