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

Instead, in one crucial scene, Lion delivers a speech that myth-busts perfectionism to the kids’ parents, who are unmoved. — Sanjena Sathian, Vulture, 22 Sep. 2026

Despite Primo’s brilliance in the kitchen and Secondo’s business savvy, the restaurant is failing, one reason being Primo’s refusal to compromise on his culinary perfectionism. — Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 20 Sep. 2026

Both types of perfectionism have been associated with anxiety and depression, among other mental health challenges, according to the report. — Gili Malinsky, CNBC, 14 Sep. 2026

During their Billboard House conversation, Questlove admitted his perfectionism has delayed the album’s release. — Carl Lamarre, Billboard, 10 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Rhymes for perfectionism

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

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