perform

perform [pər fôrm′]

vt.

[ME performen < Anglo-Fr parformer, altered (infl. by forme,FORM) < OFr parfournir, to perform, consummate < par (< L per-, intens.) + fornir, to accomplish, FURNISH]

1. to act on so as to accomplish or bring to completion; execute; carry out (a task, process, etc.)

2. to carry out; meet the requirements of; fulfill (a promise, command, etc.)

3. to give a performance of; render or enact (a piece of music, a dramatic role, etc.)

vi.

to carry out or execute an action or process; esp., to take part in a musical program, act in a play, dance, etc. before an audience

performable

adj.

performer

n.

SYN.- PERFORM, often a mere formal equivalent for DO¹, is usually used of a more or less involved process rather than a single act [to perform an experiment ]; EXECUTE implies a putting into effect or completing that which has been planned or ordered [to execute a law ]; ACCOMPLISH suggests effort and perseverance in carrying out a plan or purpose [to accomplish a mission ]; ACHIEVE implies the overcoming of obstacles in accomplishing something of worth or importance [to achieve a lasting peace ]; EFFECT also suggests the conquering of difficulties but emphasizes what has been done to bring about the result [his cure was effected by the use of certain drugs ]; FULFILL, in strict discrimination, implies the full realization of what is expected or demanded [to fulfill a promise ]