imperfection

noun

im·​per·​fec·​tion ˌim-pər-ˈfek-shən 

: the quality or state of being imperfect

also : fault, blemish

an imperfection in the jewel

Synonyms of imperfection

• defect
• scar
• blotch

Examples of imperfection in a Sentence

He detected several imperfections in the surface of the jewel.

She tried to hide the imperfection in the cloth.

Recent Examples on the Web

Henkel said the issue stems from a potential packaging imperfection that may allow product to leak from the aluminum can under pressure, creating an explosion risk. — Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 12 Aug. 2026

Cardinal Health on Tuesday showed why the healthcare distributor belongs in our portfolio, delivering robust full-year earnings guidance that trumped some imperfections in the final quarter of its fiscal 2026. — Zev Fima, CNBC, 11 Aug. 2026

In this case, self-care isn't enough to solve the problem; instead, leaders should shift their vision of their imperfections. — Gregory Stebbins, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026

Instead of walking away, Bascombe used the remaining imperfections to start a conversation about the rent. — Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 4 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for imperfection

• circumspection
• disaffection
• disconnection
• disinfection
• dorsiflexion
• indirection
• insurrection
• intellection
• interjection
• intersection
• introjection
• introspection

Kids Definition

imperfection

noun

im·​per·​fec·​tion ˌim-pər-ˈfek-shən 

1

: the quality or state of being imperfect

2

: flaw, fault