Boundary

/ˈbaʊndəri/

nounBeginnerVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

2 meanings
1

A line or plane that separates two areas, or the limit of something.

/ˈbaʊndəri/

nounneutralBeginner
General

A line that marks the limits of something.

The fence marked the boundary of their property.

💡 Simply: The edge or limit of something.

More Examples

2

She pushed the boundaries of her artistic abilities.

How It's Used

Geography

"The river forms the boundary between the two countries."

Mathematics

"Find the boundaries of the shaded region."

2

A limit or restriction; something that defines or confines.

/ˈbaʊndəri/

nounneutralIntermediate
General

A limit or restriction.

There are boundaries to what you can do.

💡 Simply: A rule or limit.

More Examples

2

Setting boundaries helps you to manage your time better.

How It's Used

Social

"He pushed the boundaries of acceptable behavior."

Tip:Think of it as a line you can't cross.

From Middle English bounderie, from Old French bounderie, from bounde "border, limit". Ultimately of Germanic origin.

Historically, the word was used primarily in geographical contexts. Its usage has broadened to encompass metaphorical boundaries in recent centuries.

Memory tip

Think of a 'bound' (limit) and 'ary' (referring to a line or region).

boundryboundery

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written