limitation

noun

lim·​i·​ta·​tion ˌli-mə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce limitation (audio)
Synonyms of limitationnext
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 How to pronounce limitation (audio)
adjective

Synonyms of limitation

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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
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.
Hurts played in that game without limitation, the team said, and threw for 220 yards and a touchdown. — Chuck Schilken, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2026 However, limitations in communication geometry can leave gaps in how missiles receive information from battlefield sensors. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 21 Oct. 2026 For arrivals willing to submit to the experimental, ever-evolving social structure, and to the limitations that were placed on newcomers, the technologically superior Eiquans professed an indifference that amounted to a willing welcome. — Jeff Spry, Space.com, 21 Oct. 2026 Best travel insurance companies *A maximum benefit amount and certain restrictions and limitations apply. — Liz Knueven, CNBC, 21 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for limitation

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of limitation was in the 15th century

Rhymes for limitation

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Browse Nearby Words

limitary
limitation
limitative
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Cite this Entry

“Limitation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/limitation. Accessed 22 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

limitation

noun
lim·​i·​ta·​tion ˌlim-ə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce limitation (audio)
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
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