limit

¹lim·it

noun \ˈli-mət\

Definition of LIMIT

1

a : something that bounds, restrains, or confines b : the utmost extent

2

a : a geographic or political boundary b plural : the place enclosed within a boundary : bounds

3

: limitation

4

: a determining feature or differentia in logic

5

: a prescribed maximum or minimum amount, quantity, or number: as a : the maximum quantity of game or fish that may be taken legally in a specified period b : a maximum established for a gambling bet, raise, or payoff

6

a : a number whose numerical difference from a mathematical function is arbitrarily small for all values of the independent variables that are sufficiently close to but not equal to given prescribed numbers or that are sufficiently large positively or negatively b : a number that for an infinite sequence of numbers is such that ultimately each of the remaining terms of the sequence differs from this number by less than any given positive amount

7

: something that is exasperating or intolerable

— lim·it·less \-ləs\ adjective

— lim·it·less·ly adverb

— lim·it·less·ness noun

Examples of LIMIT

1. He has reached the limit of his endurance.
2. In training, she pushed her body to its physical limits.
3. He tries to be creative within the limits of conventional journalism.
4. There are limits to what I can put up with from him!

Origin of LIMIT

Middle English, from Anglo-French limite, from Latin limit-, limes boundary

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to LIMIT

Synonyms: bound, boundary, cap, ceiling, confines, end, extent, limitation, line, termination

Related Words: extremity, fag end, terminus; border, brim, edge, margin, rim, verge; outside; bar, barrier, fence, hedge, restraint, stop, wall

see all synonyms and antonyms

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