Lim`i*ta"tion (?), 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.
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.
To know one's own limitations, to know the reach and limits of one's abilities.
A. R. Wallace.
© Webster 1913. | 
