limitation Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a principle that limits the extent of something
    restriction.
    • I am willing to accept certain restrictions on my movements
  2. noun the quality of being limited or restricted
    • it is a good plan but it has serious limitations
  3. noun the greatest amount of something that is possible or allowed
    limit.
    • there are limits on the amount you can bet
    • it is growing rapidly with no limitation in sight
  4. noun (law) a time period after which suits cannot be brought
    • statute of limitations
  5. noun an act of limiting or restricting (as by regulation)
    restriction.

WordNet

Lim`i*ta"tion noun
Etymology
L. limitatio: cf. F. Limitation. See Limit, v. t.
Definitions
  1. The act of limiting; the state or condition of being limited; as, the limitation of his authority was approved by the council.
    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.
  2. That which limits; a restriction; a qualification; a restraining condition, defining circumstance, or qualifying conception; as, limitations of thought.
    The cause of error is ignorance what restraints and limitations all principles have in regard of the matter whereunto they are applicable. Hooker.
  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.
  4. A limited time within or during which something is to be done.
    You have stood your limitation, and the tribunes Endue you with the people's voice. Shak.
  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. A. R. Wallace.

Webster 1913