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 of limitation

• limit
• confines

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

Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana is acutely aware of the limitations of this right. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 30 Apr. 2026

Umpires, afraid of being overturned, or at least, more aware of the new zone and its limitations, have been calling fewer strikes. —Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 29 Apr. 2026

As with any other fitness activity, neck training needs to be practiced safely and with attention to an individual’s physical needs and limitations. —James Ellingworth, Sun Sentinel, 29 Apr. 2026

Coated with a specialized surfactant to ensure cell safety, these sensors achieve molecular uniformity, function reliably under physiological conditions, and overcome the limitations of previous quantum sensing technologies. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 29 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Rhymes for limitation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

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