perfection

noun

per·​fec·​tion pər-ˈfek-shən How to pronounce perfection (audio)
Synonyms of perfectionnext
1
: the quality or state of being perfect: such as
a
: freedom from fault or defect : flawlessness
b
: maturity
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

Synonyms of perfection

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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.
Do not let perfection delay movement or turn research into a hiding place. — Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 2 Aug. 2026 The perfection of satellite and fiber-optic communications made microwaves obsolete, while the rapid development of modern computers turned the gubbins on the lower floors into museum pieces. — David Szondy august 01, New Atlas, 1 Aug. 2026 Wells’s salads combined white peaches, heirloom tomatoes and cucumbers, all hovering at peak summer perfection. — David Hochman, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026 The perfection of their cream shade is driven home by contrast topstitching. — Eric Twardzik, Robb Report, 27 July 2026 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

Phrases Containing perfection

Rhymes for perfection

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Browse Nearby Words

perfecting press
perfection
perfectionate
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Cite this Entry

“Perfection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perfection. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of perfection for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about perfection

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