Merriam-Webster Logo
SINCE 1828
Menu
dictionary thesaurus

in limine

Latin phrase in li·mi·ne \ in-ˈlē-mi-ˌne \

Definition of in limine

: on the threshold : as a preliminary matter —used for motions regarding the admissibility of evidence brought up at a pretrial hearing

Law Dictionary

1

in limine

adverb in lim·i·ne \ in-ˈli-mə-nē, -ˈlē-mi-nā \

legal Definition of in limine

: at the beginning : as a preliminary matter; specifically : before a particular procedure or proceeding takes place

Origin and Etymology of in limine

Latin, on the threshold

2

in limine

adjective

legal Definition of in limine

: of, relating to, or being a motion, petition, or order regarding the admissibility of evidence whose exclusion is sought especially on the ground that it is prejudicial

Seen and Heard

What made you want to look up in limine? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

show hide

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

WORD OF THE DAY

volatile

play

subject to rapid or unexpected change

Get Word of the Day daily email!

TRENDING NOW

  1. hogwash 'nonsense, balderdash'

  2. probity 'adherence to the highest principles and ideals'

  3. sequacious 'intellectually servile'

  4. inadmissible 'not capable of being allowed'

  5. oligarch, pejorative 'a member a government in which a small group exercises control especially for corrupt and selfish purposes'

SEE ALL

BROWSE DICTIONARY

in limine

Test Your Vocabulary

The Eponym Quiz

  • rubens-painting
  • Which is the best synonym of bowdlerize?
How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?

Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!

TAKE THE QUIZ
Citation

Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.

TAKE THE QUIZ

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games