perfection

noun

per·​fec·​tion pər-ˈfek-shən How to pronounce perfection (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being perfect: such as
a
: freedom from fault or defect : flawlessness
b
c
: the quality or state of being saintly
2
a
: an exemplification of supreme excellence
b
: an unsurpassable degree of accuracy or excellence
3
: the act or process of perfecting

Examples of perfection in a Sentence

She has achieved a rare perfection in her playing. His poetry is pure perfection.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjusting perspectives — such as recognizing that perfection is not required and that setbacks may offer learning opportunities — also plays a role for many individuals navigating change. Diane Winiarski, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025 For single parents, the key is to prioritize self-care, build a supportive community, and recognize that perfection is not the goal. Lia Miller, Parents, 1 May 2025 Gardening is all about progress, not perfection, and every grower makes a few mistakes from time to time. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Apr. 2025 Each box contains three 10-ounce bags of rice that cook to fluffy perfection in just 3 minutes. Symiah Dorsey, Southern Living, 22 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for perfection

Word History

Etymology

Middle English perfeccioun, from Anglo-French perfection, from Latin perfection-, perfectio, from perficere

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of perfection was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Perfection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perfection. Accessed 6 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

perfection

noun
per·​fec·​tion pər-ˈfek-shən How to pronounce perfection (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being perfect
2
: a perfect quality or thing
3
: a degree of accuracy or excellence that cannot be bettered
cooked to perfection
4
: the act or process of perfecting

More from Merriam-Webster on perfection

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