performance Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a dramatic or musical entertainment
    public presentation.
    • they listened to ten different performances
    • the play ran for 100 performances
    • the frequent performances of the symphony testify to its popularity
  2. noun the act of presenting a play or a piece of music or other entertainment
    • we congratulated him on his performance at the rehearsal
    • an inspired performance of Mozart's C minor concerto
  3. noun the act of performing; of doing something successfully; using knowledge as distinguished from merely possessing it
    execution; carrying into action; carrying out.
    • they criticised his performance as mayor
    • experience generally improves performance
  4. noun any recognized accomplishment
    • they admired his performance under stress
    • when Roger Maris powered four home runs in one game his performance merits awe
  5. noun process or manner of functioning or operating
    operation; functioning.
    • the power of its engine determines its operation
    • the plane's operation in high winds
    • they compared the cooking performance of each oven
    • the jet's performance conformed to high standards

WordNet

Per*form"ance noun
Definitions
  1. The act of performing; the carrying into execution or action; execution; achievement; accomplishment; representation by action; as, the performance of an undertaking of a duty.
    Promises are not binding where the performance is impossible. Paley.
  2. That which is performed or accomplished; a thing done or carried through; an achievement; a deed; an act; a feat; esp., an action of an elaborate or public character. "Her walking and other actual performances." Shak. "His musical performances." Macaulay. Syn. -- Completion; consummation; execution; accomplishment; achievement; production; work; act; action; deed; exploit; feat.

Webster 1913