Definition of perfectnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word perfect distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of perfect are entire, intact, and whole. While all these words mean "not lacking or faulty in any particular," perfect implies the soundness and the excellence of every part, element, or quality of a thing frequently as an unattainable or theoretical state.

a perfect set of teeth

In what contexts can entire take the place of perfect?

In some situations, the words entire and perfect are roughly equivalent. However, entire implies perfection deriving from integrity, soundness, or completeness of a thing.

the entire Beethoven corpus

When is it sensible to use intact instead of perfect?

While in some cases nearly identical to perfect, intact implies retention of perfection of a thing in its natural or original state.

the boat survived the storm intact

When could whole be used to replace perfect?

While the synonyms whole and perfect are close in meaning, whole suggests a completeness or perfection that can be sought, gained, or regained.

felt like a whole person again after vacation

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of perfect
Adjective
Reigns won the match with three spears in a row in a perfect singles match that had zero interference. Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2026 Donovan is perfect as the leader of a group who essentially adopts artists for their own sense of worth. Pete Hammond, Deadline, 3 Aug. 2026
Verb
Le Teint Healthy Glow has the weightlessness of a powder paired with the skin perfecting qualities of a liquid. Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 29 July 2026 With that, his exertions in perfecting his homegrown colony process—the green smoothie for caterpillars, testing procedures for parasites—came into clearer view for me. Vann R. Newkirk Ii, The Atlantic, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for perfect
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perfect
Adjective
  • Unclean Espresso Machine or Poor Water Quality A clean espresso machine and water can be key components in finally making your ideal latte at home.
    Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Aug. 2026
  • This stage, more than the first two, is ideal for some breakaway action.
    Jessica Hopkins, New York Times, 2 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • The cargo vessel struck by an unknown projectile in the Strait of Hormuz north of Oman suffered a complete blackout, according to a report from the Marisks maritime risk management group.
    Hanna Ziady, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Once their spring blooms are complete, Aggrey meticulously collects the seed pods from the clarkias, gilias and phacelias, processes the seeds and packages them for gifting before the subsequent spring.
    Pedro Moura, Los Angeles Times, 3 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Venezuela now faces a multi-year recovery following the twin quakes which have left whole regions of the country devastated and caused an economic hit equivalent to 6% of the country’s GDP, according to the United Nations Development Programme.
    Rocio Munoz, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 2026
  • The two complement each other and round out the whole experience.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Addam and Seasmoke escort Syrax, which leaves Caraxes and Daemon to finish off Sheepstealer.
    Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 3 Aug. 2026
  • If software ate the world by selling to it, AI may finish the job by buying it.
    Michael Wee, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • But the goal is to improve food access for vulnerable residents, Wang said.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Earlier this year, Atrium Health and WakeMed announced a merger agreement, projected to improve access and affordability across the state, accelerate growth and jobs in Wake County and transform mental healthcare.
    Eva Flowe August 4, Charlotte Observer, 4 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Threat actors don't wait for unanimous policy agreement or flawless standards.
    Chuck Brooks, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026
  • The model put her flawless glowy skin on full display, appearing to go makeup-free.
    Christina Perrier, InStyle, 29 July 2026
Adjective
  • Gary had the punchout on Mafah that served as the big highlight, but Ezeiruaku was moving with absolute ease off the edge in generating pressure on Prescott.
    Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 July 2026
  • But his avuncular encouragement of Tony in what could be absolute folly brings real heart to this section — until calamity intrudes.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 29 July 2026
Adjective
  • Inside the hammam, an entire hallway is devoted to visually telling their love story through art and historic panels.
    Lilian Raji, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
  • And as much as fans want to overreact to one play, the position switch – remember, Proctor played left tackle his entire career at Alabama – as well as the jump to the NFL can’t be disregarded.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 1 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Perfect.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perfect. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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