perfectionist
UK: pəˈfekʃənɪst | US: pərˈfekʃənɪst
n. a person who refuses to accept any standard short of perfection
n. someone who obsessively strives for flawlessness in their work or actions
The word "perfectionist" originates from the Latin perfectus (past participle of perficere, meaning "to complete" or "to make flawless"). The root "perfect" entered English via Old French, retaining its core meaning of flawlessness. The suffix "-ion" transforms the adjective into a noun ("perfection"), and "-ist" denotes a person who practices or adheres to the concept (e.g., "artist," "idealist"). The term emerged in the 19th century, reflecting cultural shifts toward individualism and high standards in work and ethics.
As a perfectionist, she spent hours revising every detail of her presentation.
His reputation as a perfectionist made him both respected and feared by his team.
The artist’s perfectionist tendencies delayed the exhibition by months.
Perfectionists often struggle with delegating tasks due to their high standards.
While her perfectionist mindset ensured quality, it also led to burnout.