'perform' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'parfornir,' where 'par-' meant 'thoroughly' and 'fornir' meant 'to provide or furnish.'

'parfornir' transformed into the Middle English word 'performen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'perform.'

Initially, it meant 'to complete or furnish something,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to carry out an action or entertain.'