Definition

A person who is very hard to please and wants everything to be perfect or of the highest quality.

Example

As a perfectionist, she spends hours making sure every detail of her project is flawless.

Conversation

I can't believe how hard you are on yourself about that project.

I know, I guess I'm just a bit of a perfectionist sometimes.

But it’s okay to make mistakes, right?

Definitely! It's just hard for me to accept since I want everything to be perfect.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Perfectionist → It is formed from "perfect" (from Latin *perfectus*, meaning completed or finished) and the suffix "-ist" (meaning one who practices or is concerned with). A perfectionist is someone who is concerned with achieving perfection or completeness in their work or actions.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is focused on being 'completed' or 'finished' ('perfect') — and the '-ist' means they practice or pursue that goal. This helps you remember that a perfectionist is someone who strives for perfection.

Visually Confused Words