v.
Pronunciation: p ə (r)- ' fo ̇ rm
Function: verb
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French parfurmer, alteration of perforner, parfurnir, from par-, per- thoroughly (fr. Latin per- ) + furnir to complete ― more at FURNISH
Date: 14th century
transitive verb
1 : to adhere to the terms of : FULFILL < perform a contract>
2 : CARRY OUT , DO
3 a : to do in a formal manner or according to prescribed ritual b : to give a rendition of : PRESENT
intransitive verb
1 : to carry out an action or pattern of behavior : ACT , FUNCTION
2 : to give a performance : PLAY
– per · form · abil · i · ty \ - ˌ fo ̇ r-m ə - ' bi-l ə -t ē \ noun
– per · form · able \ - ' fo ̇ r-m ə -b ə l \ adjective
– per · form · er \ - ' fo ̇ r-m ə r \ noun
synonyms 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>.