statute of limitations

noun

, Law.

1. a statute defining the period within which legal action may be taken.

statute of limitations

noun

1. a legislative enactment prescribing the period of time within which proceedings must be instituted to enforce a right or bring an action at law See also laches

statute of limitations

1. Any law that places a time restriction during which a lawsuit must be brought to court or a crime must be prosecuted.

Word History and Origins

Origin of statute of limitations¹

First recorded in 1760–70