off-limits

adjective

off-lim·​its ˈȯf-ˈli-məts How to pronounce off-limits (audio)
Synonyms of off-limitsnext
: not to be entered or patronized especially by a designated class of people
Certain areas of the museum are off-limits to visitors.
also : not to be interfered with, considered, or spoken of
The subject of politics was off-limits in her family.

Examples of off-limits in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The expert warning on high fiber candy Experts are not saying fiber candy is off-limits. Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 4 June 2026 Kel only has eyes for Abby, who in turn has her sights set on some of her attractive-yet-off-limits clients. Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 2 June 2026 What that means is that the money earned by working overtime might be fully accessible in one state and effectively off-limits in another. Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 1 June 2026 For the ultimate retreat, a three-bedroom Royal Villa is hidden away in an otherwise off-limits section of the valley. Lauren Keith, Robb Report, 30 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for off-limits

Word History

First Known Use

1945, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of off-limits was in 1945

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Cite this Entry

“Off-limits.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/off-limits. Accessed 9 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

off-limits

adjective
ˈȯ-ˈflim-əts
1
: not to be entered or used by a certain group of people
2
: not to be discussed or considered
questions about my salary are off-limits

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