- Limitation
- Limitation Lim`i*ta"tion (-t[=a]"sh[u^]n), n. [L. limitatio:
cf. F. limitation. See {Limit}, v. t.]
1. The act of limiting; the state or condition of being
limited; as, the limitation of his authority was approved
by the council.
[1913 Webster]
They had no right to mistake the limitation . . . of their own faculties, for an inherent limitation of the possible modes of existence in the universe. --J. S. Mill. [1913 Webster]
2. That which limits; a restriction; a qualification; a restraining condition, defining circumstance, or qualifying conception; as, limitations of thought. [1913 Webster]
The cause of error is ignorance what restraints and limitations all principles have in regard of the matter whereunto they are applicable. --Hooker. [1913 Webster]
3. A certain precinct within which friars were allowed to beg, or exercise their functions; also, the time during which they were permitted to exercise their functions in such a district. --Chaucer. Latimer. [1913 Webster]
4. A limited time within or during which something is to be done. [1913 Webster]
You have stood your limitation, and the tribunes Endue you with the people's voice. --Shak. [1913 Webster]
5. (Law) (a) A certain period limited by statute after which the claimant shall not enforce his claims by suit. (b) A settling of an estate or property by specific rules. (c) A restriction of power; as, a constitutional limitation. --Wharton. Bouvier. [1913 Webster]
{To know one's own limitations}, to know the reach and limits of one's abilities. --A. R. Wallace. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.