'performance-driven' originates from the combination of 'performance' and 'driven', where 'performance' refers to the act of performing a task or function, and 'driven' implies being motivated or propelled by a specific goal.

'Performance' comes from the Old French word 'parformance', and 'driven' is derived from the Old English word 'drifan'.

Initially, 'performance-driven' meant being motivated by the act of performing, but it has evolved to emphasize achieving high results.