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 always a program, never a person.

Jargon File Version 4.3.1, 29 JUN 2001 =

Skip to a random entry
Back to Liz's page