Langimage
English

limbo

|lim/bo|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈlɪm.boʊ/

🇬🇧

/ˈlɪm.bəʊ/

state of uncertainty

Etymology
Etymology Information

'limbo' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'limbus,' where 'limbus' meant 'border' or 'edge.'

Historical Evolution

'limbus' transformed into the Medieval Latin word 'limbo,' and eventually became the modern English word 'limbo.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'border or edge,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a state of uncertainty or transition.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a state of uncertainty or transition, often used to describe a situation where someone or something is in between two different states or conditions.

After submitting the application, she was in limbo waiting for a response.

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Noun 2

in some Christian beliefs, a place or state of existence for the souls of unbaptized infants and the righteous who died before Christ's coming.

The concept of limbo has been debated among theologians for centuries.

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Idioms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41