Perfect

Definition

Perfect can function as an adjective, verb, and noun. As an adjective, it describes something without flaws, fully developed, or complete. As a verb, it means to make something flawless or to bring it to completion. As a noun (in grammar), it refers to a verb tense denoting actions that are completed.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation (adjective/noun): /ˈpɝː.fɪkt/
• IPA Pronunciation (verb): /pɚˈfɛkt/
• Respelling: PER-fikt (adjective/noun), per-FEKT (verb)

British English

• IPA Pronunciation (adjective/noun): /ˈpɜː.fɪkt/
• IPA Pronunciation (verb): /pəˈfɛkt/
• Respelling: PUR-fikt (adjective/noun), puh-FEKT (verb)

Etymology

The word "perfect" originates from the Latin "perfectus," meaning "completed" or "finished," derived from "perficere" (to complete), composed of "per-" (completely) and "facere" (to do or make). It entered Middle English via Old French "parfait."

Derivatives

• Perfection (noun)
• Perfectly (adverb)
• Perfectionist (noun)
• Perfectibility (noun)
• Perfective (adjective, noun)

Synonyms

• Flawless
• Complete
• Ideal

Antonyms

• Imperfect
• Flawed
• Incomplete

Usage

The term "perfect" is widely used in various contexts to describe excellence, completion, or flawlessness. For example, "She has a perfect attendance record" or "Practice will help you perfect your skills."

Related Terms

• Flawless: Without any imperfections.
• Ideal: Conforming to a standard of perfection.
• Perfectionism: The refusal to accept anything less than perfect.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Free from flaws or defects: Describes something that meets the highest standard of quality.
  • Example: "The cake was perfect in every way."
• Complete or whole: Indicates that something is fully realized or finished.
  • Example: "He achieved a perfect score on the test."
• Ideal or exemplary: Refers to something that serves as a model of excellence.
  • Example: "She is a perfect example of determination."

Verb

• To make flawless or improve: Refers to enhancing something to its best possible state.
  • Example: "He spent years trying to perfect his technique."
• To complete or finish: Refers to bringing something to a state of finality or completion.
  • Example: "She perfected her recipe after many trials."

Noun

• A grammatical term: Refers to a verb tense indicating completed actions or states.
  • Example: "The present perfect tense is used to describe actions that have been completed."