Main Entry:

per·for·mance

Pronunciation:

\pə(r)-ˈfȯr-mən(t)s\

Function:

noun

Date:

15th century

1 a: the execution of an action b: something accomplished : deed, feat2: the fulfillment of a claim, promise, or request : implementation3 a: the action of representing a character in a play b: a public presentation or exhibition <a benefit performance>4 a: the ability to perform : efficiency b: the manner in which a mechanism performs <engine performance>5: the manner of reacting to stimuli : behavior6: the linguistic behavior of an individual : parole ; also : the ability to speak a certain language — compare competence 3