perfection

noun

per·​fec·​tion pər-ˈfek-shən How to pronounce perfection (audio)
Synonyms of perfectionnext
1
: the quality or state of being perfect: such as
a
: freedom from fault or defect : flawlessness
b
c
: the quality or state of being saintly
2
a
: an exemplification of supreme excellence
b
: an unsurpassable degree of accuracy or excellence
3
: the act or process of perfecting

Examples of perfection in a Sentence

She has achieved a rare perfection in her playing. His poetry is pure perfection.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sauté morels in walnut oil to echo the nutty qualities of the mushrooms (more common oils, like canola, will also work just fine), then simmer them to tender, bubbly perfection with Madeira cooking wine, whipping cream, chives, and rosemary. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Feb. 2026 Old-Fashioned Tomato Pie is summer perfection thanks to garden fresh tomatoes and herbs. Patricia S York, Southern Living, 27 Feb. 2026 She was loved and the representation of perfection to the sun god. Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 27 Feb. 2026 Many of us carry this pursuit of perfection over to our brows, doubling the morning makeup frustrations. Lottie Winter, Glamour, 26 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for perfection

Word History

Etymology

Middle English perfeccioun, from Anglo-French perfection, from Latin perfection-, perfectio, from perficere

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of perfection was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Perfection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perfection. Accessed 2 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

perfection

noun
per·​fec·​tion pər-ˈfek-shən How to pronounce perfection (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being perfect
2
: a perfect quality or thing
3
: a degree of accuracy or excellence that cannot be bettered
cooked to perfection
4
: the act or process of perfecting

More from Merriam-Webster on perfection

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