noun
Common
boundary
BOWND-ree
Boundary (noun) means a line or edge that marks where one area ends and another begins. Example: “Walkers must stay inside the boundary of the nature reserve.”
noun
1
A line or edge that marks where one area ends and another begins.
"Walkers must stay inside the boundary of the nature reserve."
"The fence marks the boundary between the two farms."
"She set clear boundaries about what topics were off-limits at work."
How to use boundary
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA dividing line between two areas — physical, or (increasingly) personal and emotional.
Memory tip
In everyday talk, "boundaries" is often used for personal limits people set in relationships, not just physical borders.
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Common pairings
set boundaries
cross a boundary
national boundary
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Word forms
- Plural
- boundaries
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Can you complete this real example?
Walkers must stay inside the _____ of the nature reserve.
Etymology
From bound (a limit) plus the suffix -ary.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for boundary
See all rhymes for 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.
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