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

They are dinged up and dingy, fortunate to constantly bask in a golden hue that covers up their imperfections. — Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 21 Oct. 2026

Celine’s Michael Rider leads a pack of creatives who seek spontaneous styling, embrace imperfection, and refuse to be bound by rules. — Laird Borrelli-Persson, Vogue, 21 Oct. 2026

We were inspired in part by the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, which finds beauty and value in imperfection and change. — Aprajita Gautam, The Conversation, 20 Oct. 2026

There’s something in the imperfection of humanity, and the interior life of someone who dances or even someone who just smokes a cigarette, that’s not quite there yet. — Hattie Lindert, Pitchfork, 20 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