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

But a growing body of research shows that this relentless chase can breed perfectionism, a trait linked to higher rates of anxiety and depression. —Jennifer Breheny Wallace, CNBC, 28 Dec. 2025

This full moon activates your identity and purpose, pushing you to embrace your brilliance instead of hiding it out of fear or perfectionism. —Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 23 Dec. 2025

While neutral tones, minimalism, and perfectionism have long reigned supreme, people are now craving spaces that are functional, approachable, and personal. —Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Dec. 2025

Others have reported similar experiences, where basic requests for assistance have been met with unwarranted accusations of self-destructive perfectionism. —Lila Shroff, The Atlantic, 1 Dec. 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