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

But imperfection is not inherently interesting, nor inherently artistic, no matter what Imperfect Women wants to suggest with its opening credit sequence evoking the Japanese art of kintsugi. —Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 12 Mar. 2026

Homemade Home Décor After years of hyper-polished feeds and showroom-perfect homes, people are embracing the beauty of imperfection by celebrating texture, visible brushstrokes, uneven stitching, and layered finishes. —Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 12 Mar. 2026

Algorithmic productivity over human imperfection. —Victoria Bousis, Rolling Stone, 9 Mar. 2026

The silver, 180-grit side of this file contours and shapes nail enhancements, while the white, 400-grit side smooths and removes imperfections on the nail. —Lily Wohlner, Allure, 5 Mar. 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