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
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.
Listen to this article Eleven games above .500 is an impressive mark, but when the bar is set at a championship, even minor imperfections can feel like glaring failures. Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 19 Jan. 2025 Instead of finding the imperfections stressful, lean into them. Hannah Coates, Vogue, 9 Jan. 2025 No pouring concrete, then patching over imperfections or hiding ducts behind soffits and drywall. Justin Davidson, Curbed, 8 Jan. 2025 Be aware of visual imperfections: Look for subtle flaws in images or videos, such as distorted features or unnatural movements, which may indicate manipulation. Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 7 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for imperfection 

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 22 Jan. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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