perfect 1 of 2

1
2
3

perfect

2 of 2

verb

Try This Instead

For
Try This
a perfect fit
a precise fit
a great fit
an excellent fit
an optimal fit
perfect health
spotless health
flawless health
pristine health
impeccable health
exemplary health
a perfect world
an ideal world
a flawless world
a pure world
a better world
an optimal world
perfect condition
pristine condition
flawless condition
spotless condition
immaculate condition
impeccable condition

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
The more dextrous will get perfect curves and straight lines. Gabriela Molina Riascos, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Apr. 2025 After the Timberwolves' Anthony Edwards poked the proverbial bear, Doncic turned his game up a notch, scoring 31 points to go with 12 rebounds and nine assists (on a perfect 11-for-11 from the free-throw line) to give the Lakers a 94-85 victory in Game 2, evening the series. Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Apr. 2025
Verb
Rather than perfecting your offering, launch a basic version quickly to test market response. Sarah Hernholm, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025 Erivo has fond memories of perfecting the iconic wig Elphaba wears throughout the movie, mentioning hairstylist Sim Camps. Arabella Hau, People.com, 19 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for perfect
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perfect
Adjective
  • What would be the ideal location for a children’s museum?
    Desiree Mathurin, Charlotte Observer, 1 May 2025
  • Their impeccable eye for luxury, scientific collaborations and sustainable practices create an ideal environment for guests to experience both opulence and purpose.
    Martie Bowser, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025
Adjective
  • Murder victim's family has been 'counting down the minutes' until South Carolina execution Texas pastor with simple dream killed in his own church.
    James Powel, USA Today, 1 May 2025
  • Even something as simple as hanging your own art on the walls or sharing a project online will work.
    Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 May 2025
Adjective
  • But even if it is eventually forced to part with the browser, there’s a whole heap of complications that will further delay any spin-off.
    Barry Collins, Forbes.com, 24 Apr. 2025
  • When traveling with a partner, or with friends, the strategizing can reach a whole other level.
    Zach Wichter, USA Today, 24 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Under current law, developers can be held liable for construction defects for up to 10 years after a project is completed, even for cosmetic damages.
    Muhammad Alameldin, San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 May 2025
  • How walnuts lower colorectal cancer risk The study included 39 patients between ages 40 and 65 who were screened by the clinical research team at UConn John Dempsey Hospital and asked to complete an NIH food frequency questionnaire.
    Ani Freedman, Fortune, 1 May 2025
Verb
  • He’s had to be patient this season while training under Stanley, a new coach who wanted to improve Dezeurn’s stride.
    Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 2 May 2025
  • The move is an escalation in an ongoing battle over fluoride, which effectively prevents dental cavities and improves oral health.
    John Timmer, ArsTechnica, 2 May 2025
Adjective
  • Katie Jane Hughes has the plug to fill the gaps, or rather, the techniques to yield a more flawless, creaseless complexion.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 24 Apr. 2025
  • Roberts commanded the stage, delivering flawless vocals that was met by a standing ovation from judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood.
    Rania Aniftos, Billboard, 14 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Hairston is an absolute burner who ran a 4.28 at the combine and despite his smallish weight, is a very long corner with near 32-inch arms.
    Joe Buscaglia, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025
  • But a) there are simply so many other Chappell Roan songs that are better suited for an EDM remix, if such a thing must exist, and b) the remix is an absolute affront to God.
    James Factora, Them., 25 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • After hatching, the tiny insects live almost their entire lives in the web of a single spider, eating any weakened or recently deceased insects that have been caught by their host – all while adorned in a grisly collection of body parts.
    Elizabeth Weise, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2025
  • His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of His Church.
    Callum Sutherland, Time, 24 Apr. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Perfect.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perfect. Accessed 5 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on perfect

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!