perfectionism

noun

per·​fec·​tion·​ism pər-ˈfek-shə-ˌni-zəm 

1

a

: the doctrine that the perfection of moral character constitutes a person's highest good

b

: the theological doctrine that a state of freedom from sin is attainable on earth

2

: a disposition to regard anything short of perfection as unacceptable

perfectionist

pər-ˈfek-sh(ə-)nist 

noun or adjective

perfectionistic

pər-ˌfek-shə-ˈni-stik 

adjective

Examples of perfectionism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There’s a buoyancy and lightness to her, but also a perfectionism and precision. —Kelly Lawler, USA TODAY, 17 Mar. 2025

The study framed their feelings as internal failings rather than responses to external pressures, such as patriarchy and white supremacy, which drive perfectionism. —Shari Dunn, TIME, 25 Feb. 2025

But the bride's desire for perfectionism has ruined the experience. —Ashlyn Robinette, People.com, 22 Jan. 2025

This is a time to reflect on how perfectionism may be holding you back. —Dossé-Via Trenou, refinery29.com, 16 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Rhymes for perfectionism

• activism
• ageism
• albinism
• altruism
• aneurism
• animism
• aphorism
• atomism
• barbarism
• bolshevism
• botulism
• brahmanism

Medical Definition

perfectionism

noun

per·​fec·​tion·​ism pər-ˈfek-shə-ˌniz-əm 

: a disposition to regard anything short of perfection as unacceptable

especially : the setting of unrealistically demanding goals accompanied by a disposition to regard failure to achieve them as unacceptable and a sign of personal worthlessness