executive branch

noun

plural executive branches
: the branch of government that is charged with such powers as diplomatic representation, overseeing the execution of the laws, and appointment of officials and that usually has some power over legislation (as through veto) : executive compare judicial branch, legislative branch

Examples of executive branch in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In the future, legislators could refuse to confirm to executive branch positions appointees who have been involved in the decision to start marginal wars. — Emma Ashford, Foreign Affairs, 12 Aug. 2026 That’s raised questions about potential executive branch influence over an agency designed to be independent. — Savannah Peters, Los Angeles Times, 10 Aug. 2026 Luno, another of the country’s leading exchanges, argued that executive branch changes to a 65-year-old framework undermine democratic oversight. — Tiisetso Motsoeneng, semafor.com, 7 Aug. 2026 Some legal and tax experts say the immunity agreement could violate an IRS statute barring executive branch interference in taxpayer audits and investigations. — ABC News, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for executive branch

Word History

First Known Use

1779, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of executive branch was in 1779

Rhymes for executive branch

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Browse Nearby Words

executive agreement
executive branch
executive chef
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Cite this Entry

“Executive branch.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/executive%20branch. Accessed 19 Aug. 2026.

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