imperfection

noun

im·​per·​fec·​tion ˌim-pər-ˈfek-shən How to pronounce imperfection (audio)
: the quality or state of being imperfect
also : fault, blemish

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 For instance, the Cybertruck checklist says to check for imperfections and defects in the stainless steel body and to inspect the weather seals and LED lighting in the cargo bed. Lawrence Hodge / Jalopnik, Quartz, 28 Mar. 2024 Per a press release, the 30-minute special will demonstrate how viewers can embrace imperfection in the kitchen — just as Andrés often does. Esme Mazzeo, Peoplemag, 4 Mar. 2024 The medium coverage is enough to minimize redness and the appearance of imperfections, and blends out to leave a natural silky finish. Danielle Cohen, Glamour, 1 Mar. 2024 How To Fight The Beautiful Mess Effect Overcoming the beautiful mess effect involves recognizing that vulnerability is about embracing the imperfections and complexities of being human and recognizing the beauty in authenticity. Mark Travers, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2024 This luxurious primer is the perfect base for makeup, blurring imperfections and ensuring a smooth application. Micaela Arnett, Rolling Stone, 16 Feb. 2024 Which sounds tragic, but there’s hope in her self-awareness, agency in her imperfections and comfort in this one timeless truth about love: When all else fails, there’s pie. Washington Post Staff, Washington Post, 13 Feb. 2024 Cobain’s ferocious passion is reflected in his howling vocals and the band’s oftentimes ragtag performances (and sometimes humorous) — the perfect embodiment of how imperfection can be perfection. Daniel Kohn, SPIN, 5 Apr. 2024 To love The Matrix is to love something perfectly comfortable with screaming its own intentions—and imperfections. Angela Watercutter, WIRED, 5 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'imperfection.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of imperfection was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near imperfection

Cite this Entry

“Imperfection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/imperfection. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

imperfection

noun
im·​per·​fec·​tion ˌim-pər-ˈfek-shən How to pronounce imperfection (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being imperfect
2
: flaw, fault

More from Merriam-Webster on imperfection

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