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

While not an ideal fit alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo due to his shooting limitations, Nance has shown progress from three this season. —Brian Sampson, Forbes, 27 Dec. 2024

My schedule and the limitations of Nashville's system have kept me from giving up my car. —Liz Schubauer, The Tennessean, 22 Dec. 2024

Without limitation, decisions of the Sponsor are final and binding in all matters related to this paragraph. —Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 20 Dec. 2024

However, some experts have pointed to limitations of the study’s findings, which Liu’s team has also acknowledged. —Gayoung Lee, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

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