limit

The definition of a limit is a boundary or point where something ends or the maximum amount allowed.

(noun)

An example of a limit is a child only being allowed to play on the block on which their house is located.
An example of a limit is a parent telling their child they can only spend ten dollars at the toy store.
An example of a limit is a dog on a four-foot leash.

See limit in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

the point, line, or edge where something ends or must end; boundary or border beyond which something ceases to be or to be possible
bounds; boundary lines
the greatest number or amount allowed: to catch the limit for a day of trout fishing
the maximum amount which may be bet, or by which a bet may be raised, at one time, as in poker
Math. a fixed quantity or value which a varying quantity is regarded as approaching indefinitely

Origin: OFr limite < L limes (gen. limitis), border, frontier

transitive verb

to confine within bounds; set a limit to; restrict; curb

Origin: ME limiten < OFr limiter < L limitare

Related Forms:

See limit in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

The point, edge, or line beyond which something cannot or may not proceed.
limits The boundary surrounding a specific area; bounds: within the city limits.
A confining or restricting object, agent, or influence.
The greatest or least amount, number, or extent allowed or possible: a withdrawal limit of $200; no minimum age limit.
Games The largest amount which may be bet at one time in games of chance.
Abbr. lim Mathematics A number or point L that is approached by a function f(x) as x approaches a if, for every positive number ɛ, there exists a number δ such that |f(x)-L| < ɛ if 0 < |x-a| < δ. Also called limit point, point of accumulation.
Informal One that approaches or exceeds certain limits, as of credibility, forbearance, or acceptability: He is the limit of irresponsibility.