limited

adjective

lim·​it·​ed ˈli-mə-təd 

1

a

: confined within limits : restricted

limited success

b

of a train : offering faster service especially by making a limited number of stops

2

: characterized by enforceable limitations prescribed (as by a constitution) upon the scope or exercise of powers

a limited monarchy

3

: lacking breadth and originality

a bit limited; a bit thick in the head

—Virginia Woolf

limitedly adverb

limitedness noun

Synonyms

• bounded
• circumscribed
• defined
• definite
• determinate
• finite
• measured
• narrow
• restricted

Examples of limited in a Sentence

Only a limited number of students will be allowed in the class.

People with limited incomes are hit particularly hard by inflation.

The company has had limited success.

Recent Examples on the Web

Indeed, this reluctance to learn too much about the user’s interests, and to keep what is learned away from third parties, is widely seen as a key reason why Siri’s capabilities remain so limited. —Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 8 June 2024

Bed Bath and Beyond also offers similar patio umbrellas but a more limited selection of colors on sale for $76.49. Outdoor Garden Pool Shower $345.99 A pool shower will add a touch of luxury and convenience to any poolside and help keep your pool clean. —Nora Colomer, Fox News, 8 June 2024

Former President Donald Trump has largely been absent in Arizona — limited staffing and no advertisements. —Ximena Bustillo, NPR, 7 June 2024

The results don’t last as long as an in-salon treatment and the shade options are more limited and less customizable. —Sophie Dodd, Peoplemag, 7 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1583, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing limited

• limited-access
• limited edition
• limited liability
• limited liability partnership
• limited partner
• limited partnership
• limited war
• self-limited
• sex-limited

Kids Definition

limited

adjective

lim·​it·​ed

1

: held within limits

2

: having constitutional limitations placed on the exercise of power

a limited monarchy

limitedly adverb

limitedness noun