perform

verb per·form \pə(r)-ˈfȯrm\

: to do an action or activity that usually requires training or skill

: to entertain an audience by singing, acting, etc.

—used to describe how effective or successful someone or something is

Full Definition of PERFORM

transitive verb

: to adhere to the terms of : fulfill <perform a contract>

: carry out, do

a : to do in a formal manner or according to prescribed ritual

b : to give a rendition of : present

intransitive verb

: to carry out an action or pattern of behavior : act, function

: to give a performance : play

— per·form·abil·i·ty \-ˌfȯr-mə-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun

— per·form·able \-ˈfȯr-mə-bəl\ adjective

— per·form·er \-ˈfȯr-mər\ noun

See perform defined for English-language learners

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Origin of PERFORM

Middle English, from Anglo-French parfurmer, alteration of perforner, parfurnir, from par-, per- thoroughly (from Latin per-) + furnir to complete — more at furnish

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to PERFORM

Synonyms: accomplish, achieve, bring off, carry off, carry out, commit, compass, do, execute, follow through (with), fulfill (or fulfil), make, negotiate, perpetrate, prosecute, pull off, put through, go through

Synonym Discussion of PERFORM

perform, execute, discharge, accomplish, achieve, effect, fulfill mean to carry out or into effect. perform implies action that follows established patterns or procedures or fulfills agreed-upon requirements and often connotes special skill <performed gymnastics>. execute stresses the carrying out of what exists in plan or in intent <executed the hit-and-run>. discharge implies execution and completion of appointed duties or tasks <discharged his duties>. accomplish stresses the successful completion of a process rather than the means of carrying it out <accomplished everything they set out to do>. achieve adds to accomplish the implication of conquered difficulties <achieve greatness>. effect adds to achieve an emphasis on the inherent force in the agent capable of surmounting obstacles <effected sweeping reforms>. fulfill implies a complete realization of ends or possibilities <fulfilled their ambitions>.