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

This type of problem is often found in basements where homeowners attempt a design detail or DIY project that isn't suited for the limited space. —Timothy Dale, The Spruce, 15 Jan. 2026

All sessions are free and led by licensed counselors — an important resource in a state with limited access to mental health care. —Nicole Nielsen, CBS News, 15 Jan. 2026

Samsonite luggage, Koolaburra by Ugg shoes, and more T+L favorite brands are up to 76 percent off for a limited time. —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 15 Jan. 2026

Luckily, Amazon’s limited-time deals offer plenty of options within that range. —Annie Blackman, InStyle, 15 Jan. 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