perfectionism

noun

per·​fec·​tion·​ism pər-ˈfek-shə-ˌni-zəm 

1

a

: the doctrine that the perfection of moral character constitutes a person's highest good

b

: the theological doctrine that a state of freedom from sin is attainable on earth

2

: a disposition to regard anything short of perfection as unacceptable

perfectionist

pər-ˈfek-sh(ə-)nist 

noun or adjective

perfectionistic

pər-ˌfek-shə-ˈni-stik 

adjective

Examples of perfectionism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In these cases, Harris recommends embracing landing zones over perfectionism. —Julianna Chen, Dallas Morning News, 2 Mar. 2026

Over time, my desire to bring positivity to my family became weighty perfectionism. —Debra Manetta, STAT, 26 Feb. 2026

For example, the research shows that some people inherit genes or hormone changes that disrupt hunger signals, while traits like perfectionism, low self-esteem, or past trauma also raise the risk. —ABC News, 24 Feb. 2026

How perfectionism makes athletes vulnerable One contributing factor for disordered eating is an athlete’s temperament, since certain traits also show up as risk factors for eating disorders. —Emily Hemendinger, The Conversation, 13 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Rhymes for perfectionism

• activism
• ageism
• albinism
• altruism
• aneurism
• animism
• aphorism
• atomism
• barbarism
• bolshevism
• botulism
• brahmanism

Medical Definition

perfectionism

noun

per·​fec·​tion·​ism pər-ˈfek-shə-ˌniz-əm 

: a disposition to regard anything short of perfection as unacceptable

especially : the setting of unrealistically demanding goals accompanied by a disposition to regard failure to achieve them as unacceptable and a sign of personal worthlessness