perfectibility

noun

per·​fect·​ibil·​i·​ty pərˌfektəˈbilətē sometimes ˌpərfik- 

plural -es

1

a

: a capacity for progress or improvement especially in the attainment of moral excellence

believed in rationalism, progress, and the infinite perfectibility of the human race

—J. G. Colton

b

: perfectionism sense 1

the New England mind turned from perfectibility … to intellectual progress

—H. S. Canby

c

: a belief advanced by Lessing that religion is rooted in humanitarian morality rather than dogmatic creed and is therefore subject to improvement

2

: perfection

ever the craftsman seeking perfectibility in … art

—Saturday Review

Word History

Etymology

French perfectibilité, from perfectible + -ité -ity

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Rhymes for perfectibility

• acceptability
• accessibility
• adaptability
• admissibility
• advisability
• affordability
• allowability
• amenability
• amiability
• appealability
• applicability
• availability