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
Examples of perfectionism in a Sentence
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Emotional perfectionism can bubble up in relationships today.
—
Usa Today, USA Today, 29 Jan. 2026
The Marvel series is a surprisingly tender meditation on perfectionism, performance, and the paralyzing fear of not being enough.
—Kathleen Newman-Bremang, Refinery29, 27 Jan. 2026
Studies on perfectionism show that the pursuit of flawlessness often yields diminishing returns while increasing stress.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 24 Jan. 2026
This is the problem with perfectionism.
—Hedy Phillips, PEOPLE, 20 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for perfectionism
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Usa Today, USA Today, 29 Jan. 2026
The Marvel series is a surprisingly tender meditation on perfectionism, performance, and the paralyzing fear of not being enough.
—Kathleen Newman-Bremang, Refinery29, 27 Jan. 2026
Studies on perfectionism show that the pursuit of flawlessness often yields diminishing returns while increasing stress.
—Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 24 Jan. 2026
This is the problem with perfectionism.
—Hedy Phillips, PEOPLE, 20 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for perfectionism
Cite this Entry
“Perfectionism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perfectionism. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical 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
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