Meaning & Definition of word "Perfectionist"

to

arrow

    Perfectionist

    /pərˈfɛkʃənɪst/

    noun:

    • 1. A person who demands perfection of themselves and others.
      • Example: As a perfectionist, she spent hours revising her paper until every sentence was flawless.
    • 2. One who is not satisfied unless everything is perfect.
      • Example: His perfectionist tendencies often led to missed deadlines because he couldn't bring himself to submit anything that wasn't perfect.
    • 3. A person who has a strong desire to achieve very high standards.
      • Example: Being a perfectionist, he felt the need to perfect his presentation down to the last detail.

    Etymology

    From the word 'perfection' combined with the suffix '-ist', indicating a person who practices or advocates.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    chasing perfection:

    Seeking to achieve flawlessness in something.

    perfection is unattainable:

    The concept that complete perfection cannot be achieved.

    good enough:

    The idea that something doesn't have to be perfect to be sufficient.

    Related Words

    perfection:

    The state or quality of being perfect.

    ideal:

    A standard of perfection; a model of excellence.

    flawless:

    Without any imperfections.

    Slang Meanings of perfectionist

    Meaning: Obsessive over details.

    Example Sentence: She's such a detail freak, a total perfectionist about her projects.

    Meaning: Someone who is excessively critical of their own work.

    Example Sentence: Don't be a perfectionist; it doesn’t have to be perfect to be great.