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 of limitation

• limit
• confines

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

After a presentation and discussion on April 14, the Miami Beach Historic Preservation Board voted to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the project but with conditions and limitations. — Miami Herald, 9 July 2026

However, for this couple, the limitations placed on MEHKOs are already being felt. — Kate Bradshaw, Mercury News, 9 July 2026

Keef also knows his physical limitations, choosing to eschew a 2026 stadium tour for the band’s latest album, Foreign Tongues. — Devon Ivie, Vulture, 8 July 2026

Their strategies range from asking better questions and providing immediate value to embracing transparency, acknowledging limitations and creating genuine human connections that skeptical buyers remember. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

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