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

But the problem with perfectionism is that no one is perfect. —Kendra MacDonald, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025

Marie says that Black Girls Breathing encourages Black women to find freedom despite systemic oppression, challenge perfectionism by reframing failure as an opportunity for growth, and redefine success on your own terms. —Jameelah Nasheed, Essence, 13 Jan. 2025

However, this creates a silhouette that evokes perfectionism yet again. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 18 Apr. 2025

Filmed in just 19 days, this document of toxic ambition offers a razor-sharp examination of the dangers of perfectionism. —Travis Bean, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025

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