limits

lim-its · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The furthest extent or boundary of something; the points beyond which something cannot go.

  2. 2.

    Restrictions or constraints on what is possible or permissible.

  3. 3.

    (mathematics) The value that a function or sequence approaches as the input approaches some value.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    within limits — to a moderate extent; not excessively
  • •
    off limits — not to be entered or used; forbidden
  • •
    push the limits — to test or exceed the boundaries of what is possible
  • •
    city limits — the boundaries defining a city's territory
  • •
    know one's limits — to understand one's capabilities and not exceed them

Related words

Antonyms: freedoms, possibilities
See also: boundary, limit, limited
Synonyms: boundaries, bounds, constraints, restrictions

Etymology

From Latin limes (genitive limitis) meaning "boundary, frontier, path between fields." Entered English via Old French limite in the 14th century.