liminal space

American  

[lim-uh-nl speys] / ˈlɪm ə nl ˈspeɪs /

noun

1. a state or place characterized by being transitional or intermediate in some way: In the film, Venice is a liminal space where the real and imaginary meet.

   Motels are such liminal spaces—everyone there is either coming or going.

   In the film, Venice is a liminal space where the real and imaginary meet.

2. Informal. any location that is unsettling, uncanny, or dreamlike.

   The classroom when school is out for the summer is a liminal space.

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Etymology

Origin of liminal space

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

Since I’d been finding myself in various Chinatowns both as a liminal space and a state of mind, I told them I’d claim it, even though it was just as mysterious to me.

From Los Angeles Times

In the liminal space after combat, Mr. Hertling played volleyball with Iraqi deserters.

From The Wall Street Journal

It took me a lot of work to understand how beautiful occupying that liminal space is instead.

From Los Angeles Times

It took me a lot of work to understand how beautiful occupying that liminal space is instead.

From Los Angeles Times

That liminal space for me is just perfect for writing.

From Los Angeles Times