Exec: /eg-zek/ 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 UNIVACs 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.
Posted on: Fri, 03 Oct 2014 23:58:14 +0000