limit 1 of 2

Definition of limitnext

limit

2 of 2

noun

1
2
as in height
the most extreme or advanced point those bratty kids have pushed my patience to the limit

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word limit different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of limit are circumscribe, confine, and restrict. While all these words mean "to set bounds for," limit implies setting a point or line (as in time, space, speed, or degree) beyond which something cannot or is not permitted to go.

visits are limited to 30 minutes

When could circumscribe be used to replace limit?

In some situations, the words circumscribe and limit are roughly equivalent. However, circumscribe stresses a restriction on all sides and by clearly defined boundaries.

the work of the investigating committee was carefully circumscribed

When might confine be a better fit than limit?

While in some cases nearly identical to limit, confine suggests severe restraint and a resulting cramping, fettering, or hampering.

our choices were confined by finances

When can restrict be used instead of limit?

The words restrict and limit can be used in similar contexts, but restrict suggests a narrowing or tightening or restraining within or as if within an encircling boundary.

laws intended to restrict the freedom of the press

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of limit
Verb
Once signed into law, big investors will be limited from buying up single-family homes and some building regulations will be loosened in an attempt to increase supply and ease the nationwide shortage. Michelle Stoddart, ABC News, 24 June 2026 This legislation will limit these big investors from buying more than 350 homes. Brittney Melton, NPR, 24 June 2026
Noun
Administrators can also set limits for token spend, both for individual channels and the organization—likely an attempt to ease some of the simmering concerns about the cost of AI tools. Beatrice Nolan, Fortune, 23 June 2026 The measure could incentivize Democrats to save more money because funds tucked away in the rainy day fund would no longer be considered expenditures counted toward the spending limit. Taryn Luna, Los Angeles Times, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for limit
Recent Examples of Synonyms for limit
Verb
  • In recent years, lawmakers have restricted the elections school districts can run these ballot measures in, giving them fewer chances to propose levies and bonds.
    Becca Savransky, Idaho Statesman, 24 June 2026
  • Actually Said About Peptides Speaking on Rogan’s podcast in late February, Kennedy said about 14 of the 19 peptides moved to Category 2, the FDA’s restricted compounding status, in late 2023 would shift back to Category 1, restoring a legal compounding pathway by prescription.
    Allison Palmer Updated June 24, Charlotte Observer, 24 June 2026
Verb
  • One of Wood’s earliest conversations with Reid centered on abandoning the heeled footwear that helped define earlier versions of the character.
    Precious Fondren, Los Angeles Times, 20 June 2026
  • McTominay, whose iconic bicycle kick against Denmark was the defining goal of Scotland’s World Cup qualifying campaign, threatened multiple times past the 80th minute but couldn’t convert.
    Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 20 June 2026
Noun
  • But the industry groups are still arguing that film credits should be entirely exempt from the new limitations, as they have already been accounted for and approved by the Legislature through 2030.
    Gene Maddaus, Variety, 19 June 2026
  • Sometimes our limitations arrive uninvited.
    Amber Harding OutKick, FOXNews.com, 18 June 2026
Noun
  • The Knicks at the height of the celebrations Thursday.
    Amina Kilpatrick, NBC news, 19 June 2026
  • The book's cover features a photo of Collin and Kate that appears to be taken during the height of Jon & Kate Plus 8's popularity.
    Daniel S. Levine, PEOPLE, 18 June 2026
Noun
  • The celebration began at noon at Hastings High School, featuring an inaugural flag ceremony including the flags of the sovereign nations within Minnesota's state boundaries, and a performance by the Little Horse Singers drum group.
    WCCO Staff, CBS News, 23 June 2026
  • Instead of advocating for an all-or-nothing digital detox, Nicolaou recommends creating healthier boundaries that help people stay connected without feeling constantly consumed by their screens.
    Bryan Robinson, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • The earthquake’s shallow depth also allowed it to be felt across a wide region of the country, including Caracas, where residents reported intense shaking that forced evacuations from residential buildings, offices and shopping centers.
    Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 25 June 2026
  • The Sacramento Kings acquired their point guard of the future and made a trade to improve their wing depth on the first day of the NBA draft.
    Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 25 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Limit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/limit. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.

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