limited

adjective

lim·​it·​ed ˈli-mə-təd 

1

a

: confined within limits : restricted

limited success

b

of a train : offering faster service especially by making a limited number of stops

2

: characterized by enforceable limitations prescribed (as by a constitution) upon the scope or exercise of powers

a limited monarchy

3

: lacking breadth and originality

… a bit limited; a bit thick in the head …

—Virginia Woolf

limitedly adverb

limitedness noun

Synonyms of limited

• restricted
• finite
• defined
• definite

Examples of limited in a Sentence

Only a limited number of students will be allowed in the class.

People with limited incomes are hit particularly hard by inflation.

The company has had limited success.

Recent Examples on the Web

Instead, language barriers and limited information can hinder their ability to navigate legal situations effectively, Kittaka said. — Laura Sharman, CNN Money, 12 July 2026

But there are limited exceptions, including certain rollovers, distributions upon death and for excess contributions, according to the IRS. — Jessica Dickler, CNBC, 11 July 2026

The program supports people with limited income who are blind, age 65 or older, or have a qualifying disability. — Britta Miller, The Washington Examiner, 11 July 2026

Given the limited footprint and stringent setbacks, architect Daniel Kaven had nowhere to go but up. — Fred Albert, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing limited

• limited-access
• limited edition
• limited liability
• limited liability partnership
• limited partner
• limited partnership
• limited war
• self-limited
• sex-limited

Rhymes for limited

• delimited
• unlimited

Kids Definition

limited

adjective

lim·​it·​ed

1

: held within limits

2

: having constitutional limitations placed on the exercise of power

a limited monarchy

limitedly adverb

limitedness noun