Lim`i*ta"tion (-tā"shŭn), 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.
Hear it pronounced