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.

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.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)