limitation

noun

lim·​i·​ta·​tion ˌli-mə-ˈtā-shən 

1

: an act or instance of limiting

2

: the quality or state of being limited

3

: something that limits : restraint

4

: a certain period limited by statute after which actions, suits, or prosecutions cannot be brought in the courts

limitational

ˌli-mə-ˈtā-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

Synonyms

• bound
• boundary
• cap
• ceiling
• confines
• end
• extent
• limit
• line
• termination

Examples of limitation in a Sentence

a law aimed at the limitation of federal power

They have placed a limitation on the amount of time we have available.

Recent Examples on the Web

Elderly adults are more susceptible to diseases, impairments and mobility limitations that require prescription drugs and accessories like walkers, shower seats, incontinence products, pacemakers and insulin pumps. —Madeline Mitchell, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025

Read product labels for specific uses and limitations. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 19 Apr. 2025

Legacy applications often have limitations in responding to demand peaks or integrating with new tools. —Manuel Sanchez, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025

The only limitation is the depth of the water, as the wheels do have to stay in contact with the bottom of the pool. —Beth Lipoff, Kansas City Star, 18 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Rhymes for limitation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

limitation

noun

lim·​i·​ta·​tion ˌlim-ə-ˈtā-shən 

1

: the act or an instance of limiting

2

: the quality or state of being limited

3

: something that limits

Legal Definition

limitation

noun

lim·​i·​ta·​tion

1

a

: restriction

a limitation on the rights of ownership

b

: a statement or stipulation in a deed or will placing limits on the disposition of an estate or interest especially in regard to duration or heirs see also word of limitation

2

: a certain period limited by statute after which actions or prosecutions cannot be brought in the courts see also statute of limitations