A completist is an individual who possesses the trait or inclination to collect or acquire all the items or components related to a particular category, series, or subject matter, with the intention of achieving an exhaustive and comprehensive collection. The term is frequently used in reference to obsessive or comprehensive collectors who strive to gather every item within a specific framework, regardless of rarity, significance, or practicality.
Completists are often driven by a desire for perfection, thoroughness, or the gratification that emerges from completing a set, collection, or sequence. This characteristic can manifest in various aspects of life, such as music, literature, sports memorabilia, movies, video games, or historical or cultural artifacts. A completist's objective is to possess the entirety of a set, leaving no gaps or missing elements.
The tendency of a completist is often marked by unwavering dedication, meticulousness, and an attention to detail. However, this trait may also lead to obsession, as completists may undertake extensive and time-consuming efforts to obtain and accumulate items, sometimes at considerable expense. They may immerse themselves in exhaustive research, attend auctions or events, search for rare or limited items, participate in online communities, or engage in various trading activities to enhance their collections.
Ultimately, the essence of a completist lies in the pursuit of comprehensiveness and the relentless drive to achieve a collection that is as extensive and all-encompassing as possible within a specific field of interest or criteria.
