[an error occurred while processing this directive]

exec

[prev][up][next]
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.

[prev][up][next]
Return to Cool Jargon of the Day