demarcation

American  

[dee-mahr-key-shuhn] / ˌdi mɑrˈkeɪ ʃən /

Or demarkation

noun

1. the determining and marking off of the boundaries of something.

2. separation by distinct boundaries.

   line of demarcation.

---

demarcation British  

/ ˌdiːmɑːˈkeɪʃən /

noun

1. the act of establishing limits or boundaries

2. a limit or boundary

3. 1. a strict separation of the kinds of work performed by members of different trade unions

   2. ( as modifier )

      demarcation dispute

4. separation or distinction (often in the phrase line of demarcation )

---

Etymology

Origin of demarcation

1720–30; Latinization of Spanish demarcación (in linea de demarcación line of demarcation, dividing the world between Spain and Portugal) derivative of demarcar to mark out the bounds of, equivalent to de- de- + marcar < Italian marcare < Germanic; mark ¹, -ation

Example Sentences

While the two nations agreed late last month to stop fighting, they still need to resolve the demarcation of their disputed border.

From Barron's

While the two nations agreed on Saturday to stop fighting, they still need to resolve the demarcation of their disputed border.

From Barron's

While both sides agreed Saturday to stop fighting, they will still need to resolve the demarcation of their border.

From Barron's

Lula made the demarcation of Indigenous lands a campaign promise and has approved around 20 territories since he returned to office in 2023.

From Barron's

As a somewhat arbitrary demarcation, ringing in a new year sometimes lacks drama—though not this year.

From Barron's

Related Words

• delimitation
• separation