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

David Parham smokes salmon with a passion and perfectionism more often associated with prima ballerinas or Japanese ceramists. —Sarah Moss, Travel + Leisure, 11 Jan. 2026

Learning that mistakes are inevitable rather than a sign of inherent flaws can help your kids avoid the stress of perfectionism, which can lead to long-term mental health issues like anxiety and low self-esteem, according to developmental psychologist Aliza Pressman. —Tom Huddleston Jr., CNBC, 7 Jan. 2026

Your challenge this month is to set limits without guilt and risk emotional authenticity instead of hiding behind perfectionism to feel safe, Virgo. —Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 5 Jan. 2026

Along with anxiety, this can also help reduce perfectionism, shame, and self-judgment. —Hannah Silverman, Parents, 5 Jan. 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