From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Performance \Per*form"ance\, n.
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.
[1913 Webster]
Promises are not binding where the performance is
impossible. --Paley.
[1913 Webster]
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.
[1913 Webster]
Syn: Completion; consummation; execution; accomplishment;
achievement; production; work; act; action; deed;
exploit; feat.
[1913 Webster]