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

The stress of perfectionism is massive within this generation. —Colleen Batchelder, Forbes.com, 6 May 2025

Still, Mercury’s square to Pluto on May 12 could create tension in your desire for growth and the tendency to get caught up in routine or perfectionism. —Staff Author, People.com, 1 May 2025

On top of that, perfectionism has skyrocketed among college students, who often report feeling pressure to meet unrealistic expectations. —Christina Caron, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2025

Set decision deadlines to maintain momentum when perfectionism threatens to stall you. —Jodie Cook, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025

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