speed limit

noun

: the maximum or minimum speed permitted by law in a given area under specified circumstances

Examples of speed limit in a Sentence

The speed limit here is 55 mph. She got a ticket for breaking the speed limit.
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 speed limit in the work zone is 55 mph, and drivers are required to move over when possible or slow down when approaching workers or construction activity along the shoulder. — Carmela Karcher, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026 The firm noted that major bridges like the Donghai Bridge and the Hangzhou Bay Bridge, as well as regional expressways, have reopened with standard speed limits restored. — Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 11 Aug. 2026 For drivers, one of the biggest changes involves speed limits in school zones. — Angela Rodriguez, Sacbee.com, 11 Aug. 2026 Some of these machines can go more than twice the legal 15-mph speed limit that applies to e-bikes and e-scooters. — New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 6 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for speed limit

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of speed limit was in 1902

Rhymes for speed limit

See All Rhymes for speed limit

Browse Nearby Words

speedlight
speed limit
speed merchant
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Speed limit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/speed%20limit. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

speed limit

noun
: the highest or lowest speed allowed by law in a certain area

More from Merriam-Webster on speed limit

Nglish: Translation of speed limit for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about speed limit

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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