Limit

/ˈlɪmɪt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A point or level beyond which something does not or may not extend or pass.
There is a speed limit of 55 miles per hour on this highway.
The maximum amount of something that is allowed.
The bank has a limit on the amount you can withdraw from your account daily.
A restriction on what is possible or permissible.
There is no limit to what you can achieve if you work hard.
verb
To set a boundary or restrict something.
The school decided to limit the number of students in each class.
To restrict the range or scope of something.
We need to limit our expenditure to stay within budget.

Etymology

Middle English limite, from Latin limitare 'to bound, to limit'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

push the limits
To go beyond what is considered normal or acceptable.
limit one's options
To restrict the choices available.
no limits
Describes a situation with no constraints.

Related Words

boundary
A line that marks the limits of an area.
restrain
To prevent someone or something from doing something.
maximum
The greatest amount possible.

Slang Meanings

To set boundaries in a situation.
You need to limit your time on social media.
To reach the edge or maximum of something.
We pushed it to the limit on that last run.