n. & v.
n. 1 the edge or boundary of anything, or the part near it. 2 a the line separating two political or geographical areas, esp. countries. b the district on each side of this. c (the Border) a particular boundary and its adjoining districts, esp. between Scotland and England (usu. the Borders), or n. Ireland and the Irish Republic. 3 a distinct edging round anything, esp. for strength or decoration. 4 a long narrow bed of flowers or shrubs in a garden (herbaceous border).
v. 1 tr. be a border to. 2 tr. provide with a border. 3 intr. (usu. foll. by on, upon) a adjoin; come close to being. b approximate, resemble. Border collie a common working sheepdog of the North Country. Border terrier 1 a small terrier of a breed with rough hair. 2 this breed.
[ ME f. OF bordure: cf. BOARD ]