imperfection

noun

im·​per·​fec·​tion ˌim-pər-ˈfek-shən 

: the quality or state of being imperfect

also : fault, blemish

Synonyms

• blemish
• blight
• blotch
• defect
• deformity
• disfigurement
• excrescence
• excrescency
• fault
• flaw
• mar
• mark
• pockmark
• scar

Examples of imperfection in a Sentence

He detected several imperfections in the surface of the jewel.

She tried to hide the imperfection in the cloth.

Recent Examples on the Web

Last year, Kiké Hernández did the same thing after discovering astigmatism (a condition caused by imperfections in the curvature of the eye that can impact vision) in his own right eye. —Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 2 May 2025

Stay consistent — and embrace imperfection Sasha Clark, founding partner at Clutch Creative Marketing, knows firsthand that the fastest way to build a personal brand is through consistent, imperfect action. —Rhett Power, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025

But after Hubble’s deployment, as the telescope began operations, astronomers realized its vision was blurry and traced the issue to a tiny imperfection in the telescope’s mirror. —Meghan Bartels, Scientific American, 24 Apr. 2025

This generation's lesson is to embrace imperfections and be open about flaws. —Lisa Stardust, People.com, 18 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for imperfection

• circumspection
• disaffection
• disconnection
• disinfection
• dorsiflexion
• indirection
• insurrection
• intellection
• interjection
• intersection
• introjection
• introspection

Kids Definition

imperfection

noun

im·​per·​fec·​tion ˌim-pər-ˈfek-shən 

1

: the quality or state of being imperfect

2

: flaw, fault