perfectionism

noun

per·​fec·​tion·​ism pər-ˈfek-shə-ˌni-zəm How to pronounce perfectionism (audio)
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 noun or adjective
perfectionistic adjective

Word History

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Time Traveler
The first known use of perfectionism was in 1835

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Perfectionism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perfectionism. Accessed 18 Jun. 2025.

Medical Definition

perfectionism

noun
per·​fec·​tion·​ism pər-ˈfek-shə-ˌniz-əm How to pronounce perfectionism (audio)
: 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!