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
Examples of perfectionism in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Themes of deep longing and perfectionism that recurred in his lyrics and personality were present, too.
—
Ross Scarano, New York Times, 5 June 2024
In fact, past administrations have routinely found themselves at similar odds with the Defense Department when their lofty goals met with Pentagon practicality and perfectionism.
—Julianne Smith, Foreign Affairs, 12 Feb. 2018
Weaknesses: Their tendency toward perfectionism may lead to a focus on minor details at the expense of broader strategic goals, potentially hindering progress or causing delays.
—Michelle Deal-Zimmerman, Baltimore Sun, 8 May 2024
Procrastination can sometimes be the manifestation of perfectionism, which can exacerbate anxiety, overwhelm and stress.
—Jasmine Browley, Essence, 14 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for perfectionism 
Ross Scarano, New York Times, 5 June 2024
In fact, past administrations have routinely found themselves at similar odds with the Defense Department when their lofty goals met with Pentagon practicality and perfectionism.
—Julianne Smith, Foreign Affairs, 12 Feb. 2018
Weaknesses: Their tendency toward perfectionism may lead to a focus on minor details at the expense of broader strategic goals, potentially hindering progress or causing delays.
—Michelle Deal-Zimmerman, Baltimore Sun, 8 May 2024
Procrastination can sometimes be the manifestation of perfectionism, which can exacerbate anxiety, overwhelm and stress.
—Jasmine Browley, Essence, 14 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for perfectionism
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'perfectionism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Perfectionism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perfectionism. Accessed 15 Jun. 2024.
Copy CitationMedical 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
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