impeccable

Impeccable is an adjective used to describe something that is faultless, flawless, or in keeping with the highest standards. In religious origins, it meant “not capable of sin,” but in contemporary use the term has broadened to refer to conduct, character, or quality that shows no obvious flaws.

Etymology traces impeccabilis, from Latin, through Old French impeccabel or impeccable. The literal sense was “not able to sin,” formed by in- (not) and peccare (to sin). Over time, the meaning shifted from a theological notion of sinlessness to a general sense of perfection or exemplary quality in nonreligious contexts.

Usage of the word spans manners, taste, service, timing, and craftsmanship. It can modify nouns, as in impeccable service, or be used of people, for example an impeccably dressed host. The phrase “impeccable record” signals an unblemished history. In some contexts, the term emphasizes idealized standards rather than real-world perfection, and its strength can be perceived as marked or assertive.

Notes on nuance: today, impeccable is almost always positive, but its original religious sense is largely historical. Because it implies a high degree of flawlessness, some editors recommend reserving it for exceptional cases or whenever a stronger form of praise is warranted; alternatives include faultless, flawless, or pristine depending on context.