DictionarypullCarrying out an action
verb

pull

To carry out an act or feat.

The magician pulls a surprising trick with an ordinary coin.

Etymology

Pull developed a sense of bringing off or carrying out an action. Expressions such as pull a trick apply that achievement sense to a particular act.

More examples

  • They pulled off a difficult rescue.
  • He tried to pull a prank on his brother.
  • I cannot believe she pulled that stunt again.

Forms

pull · pulls · pulled · pulling

Similar words

perform
More neutral; pull often suggests a feat or trick.
execute
More formal and often suggests following an organized plan.