ˈlɪmɪt n. & v. --n. 1 a
point, line, or
level beyond which something does not or
may not
extend or pass. 2 (often in pl.)
the boundary of an
area. 3 the greatest or smallest
amount permissible or
possible (upper limit; lower limit). 4
Math. a
quantity which a
function or
sum of a
series can be
made to
approach as closely as desired. --v.tr. (limited, limiting) 1 set or
serve as a limit
to. 2 (foll. by to)
restrict. øbe the limit colloq. be
intolerable or extremely irritating.
off limits US
out of bounds.
within limits moderately;
with some degree of
freedom.
without limit with no
restriction. øølimitable adj. limitative adj. limiter n. [ME f. L limes limitis boundary, frontier]