Definition of: limit

(lim′it) noun
1. A line, point, or boundary beyond which something ceases to extend, operate, avail, etc.
2. That which is limited or has bounds; ;a district; period.
3. That which impedes or hinders; a check.
4. Math. A definite quantity or value which a series is conceived or proved to approach but never reach.
5. In certain games, as of cards, the largest amount which may be wagered at one time: used with the definite article, especially in poker. See synonyms under BOUNDARY, END, MARGIN.
—off limits A locality or area forbidden to military personnel except on official business.
—three-mile limit A distance of three geographic miles from the shore line seaward, allowed by international law for teroritorial jurisdiction.
—v.t. To set a bound or bounds to; keep within a limit; restrict. [<L limes, limites]
—lim′it·a·ble adjective
—lim·i·ta·tive (lim′ə·tā′tiv) adjective
—lim′it·er noun
—lim′it·less adjective Synonyms (verb): bound, check, circumscribe, confine, define, hinder, impede, repress, restrain, restrict. See CIRCUMSCRIBE, SCRIMP.