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.
Phrases and idioms:
be 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.
Derivatives:
limitable adj. limitative adj. limiter n.
Etymology: ME f. L limes limitis boundary, frontier