Word History

Etymology

Latin limin-, limen transverse beam in a door frame, threshold; probably akin to Latin limus transverse

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of limen was in 1895

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Limen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/limen. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Medical Definition

: threshold
appetites and needs … smouldering below the limen of awarenessR. M. Lindner
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