What does impeccable mean?
Impeccable is an adjective meaning perfect in every respect, especially in quality, appearance, conduct, or execution. It is used for things that are so carefully made or performed that they seem without flaws, as in “an impeccable record” or “impeccable taste.” The word can also describe someone whose behavior is consistently proper, disciplined, and beyond criticism. Unlike general praise such as “excellent,” it implies an exceptionally exact standard and the absence of any significant defect. Impeccable is especially common in formal English, though it is fully natural in everyday speech when someone wants to express the highest possible approval. Its literal history, meaning “without stain,” helps explain why it conveys such a strong sense of faultlessness.
adjectivePerfect in every respect; faultless and beyond criticism. It describes something exceptionally well made, carefully done, or free from flaws.
- Perfect in every respect; faultless and beyond criticism.
- Of behavior or manners: exemplarily proper, disciplined, or tasteful.
"The chef prepared the meal with impeccable attention to detail."
"Her performance was flawless, earning praise for her impeccable technique."
"He maintained impeccable manners throughout the formal ceremony."
Impeccable literally means “without stain,” a fitting origin for a word that describes something with no flaw to find.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does impeccable come from?
Impeccable entered English in the early 17th century from the Latin impeccabilis, meaning “not liable to be stained” or “faultless.” The Latin word combined the prefix in-, meaning “not,” with macula, meaning “stain” or “spot.” Its close English relative immaculate comes from the same Latin root, as do maculate and maculation.
Related word forms
How impeccable is actually used
The adjective is commonly used with “taste,” “standards,” “record,” and “behavior.” It is stronger than simply saying that something is good, suggesting that no meaningful flaw or criticism can be identified.
Easily confused with impeccable
Impeccable means flawless, whereas imperious means domineering or excessively proud.