perfection
NounWordNet 3.0
Noun (3)
- the state of being without a flaw or defectSynonyms: flawlessnessne plus ultra
- an ideal instance; a perfect embodiment of a conceptSynonyms: paragonidolbeau ideal
- the act of making something perfect
Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)
Perfection \Per*fec"tion\, n. [F. perfection, L. perfectio.]
1.The quality or state of being perfect or complete, so that nothing requisite is wanting; entire development; consummate culture, skill, or moral excellence; the highest attainable state or degree of excellence; maturity; as, perfection in an art, in a science, or in a system; perfection in form or degree; fruits in perfection. [1913 Webster]
2.A quality, endowment, or acquirement completely excellent; an ideal faultlessness; especially, the divine attribute of complete excellence. --Shak. [1913 Webster]
What tongue can her perfections tell?— Sir P. Sidney.[1913 Webster]
To perfection, in the highest degree of excellence; perfectly; as, to imitate a model to perfection. [1913 Webster]
Perfection \Per*fec"tion\, v. t. To perfect. [Obs.] --Foote. [1913 Webster]
The Devil's Dictionary
PERFECTION, n. An imaginary state of quality distinguished from the actual by an element known as excellence; an attribute of the critic. The editor of an English magazine having received a letter pointing out the erroneous nature of his views and style, and signed "Perfection," promptly wrote at the foot of the letter: "I don't agree with you," and mailed it to Matthew Arnold.