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

The effort—along with the small imperfections that reveal a human hand—can become part of the appeal, potentially making a brand feel worth paying more for. — Tatiana Sataua, Fortune, 15 Oct. 2026

Waymo’s sales pitch is that its technology will remove all that mortal imperfection from our streets. — Molly Fischer, New Yorker, 12 Oct. 2026

However, these fragile states can deteriorate through interactions with the environment and imperfections in hardware. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 9 Oct. 2026

At the center of the collection is Brurry Denim, a proprietary Japanese selvedge developed for the collection using intentionally irregular yarns inspired by the imperfections of century-old fabrics. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 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