boundary
8 synonyms and 1 antonym for boundary, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A line or edge that marks where one area ends and another begins.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use boundary
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
set boundaries
cross a boundary
national boundary
Etymology
From bound (a limit) plus the suffix -ary.
Full origin of boundary →Frequently asked questions
What does “boundary” mean?
The word “boundary” means a line or edge that marks where one area ends and another begins. In plain terms, a dividing line between two areas — physical, or (increasingly) personal and emotional.
How do you pronounce “boundary”?
“Boundary” is pronounced BOWND-ree (/ˈbaʊndɹi/ in IPA).
How do you use “boundary” in a sentence?
Here is “boundary” used in a sentence: “The fence marks the boundary between the two farms.”
What part of speech is “boundary”?
“Boundary” is a noun.
Is “boundary” a common word?
“Boundary” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between 'boundary' and 'border'?
A boundary is the line or edge marking where one area ends and another begins, and it can be physical or abstract. A border usually refers to the boundary between two countries or regions, and often to the zone on either side of that line.
What is the difference between 'boundary' and 'limit'?
A boundary marks the edge of a physical or conceptual area, while a limit is the greatest or least amount that is allowed or possible. A fence marks a boundary, whereas a speed limit sets the maximum you may drive.
What is the difference between 'boundary' and 'barrier'?
A boundary is a line that marks where one area ends, while a barrier is a physical object that blocks movement or access. A boundary can be invisible, such as a property line, but a barrier is something you can physically run into.
