out-of-bounds

adverb or adjective

ˌau̇t-ə(v)-ˈbau̇n(d)z 

: outside the prescribed or conventional boundaries or limits

If the Frisbee hits the ground or soars out-of-bounds, it changes hands.

—John Bowermaster

Only a few yards over the green are out-of-bounds markers.

—Jeff Gerth

Our slate is going to have edgier films that aren't exactly out-of-bounds for children, but that are really made for more sophisticated audiences.

—David Hochman

Examples of out-of-bounds in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Kneepkens ran around a flurry of screens for a corner 3-pointer on a baseline out-of-bounds play, Lauren Betts dropped in a layup, and then found Lena Bilic in the corner to extend the lead to 35. —Aaron Heisen, Daily News, 22 Mar. 2026

The last two minute report confirmed Sunday that the out-of-bounds call was correct. —Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 22 Mar. 2026

The ski resort also has an out-of-bounds acreage that's 50 percent larger than the in-bounds area. —Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 19 Feb. 2026

Within the first four minutes of the fourth quarter, Redick successfully challenged a foul and an out-of-bounds call. —Benjamin Royer, Oc Register, 10 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for out-of-bounds

• abounds
• backgrounds
• campgrounds
• confounds
• expounds
• fairgrounds
• foregrounds
• foxhounds
• greyhounds
• playgrounds
• propounds
• rebounds

Kids Definition

out-of-bounds

adverb or adjective

ˌau̇t-ə(v)-ˈbau̇n(d)z

: outside the limits of the playing area

the pass went out-of-bounds