horizon

noun ho·ri·zon \hə-ˈrī-z^ən\

the horizon : the line where the earth or sea seems to meet the sky

: the limit or range of a person's knowledge, understanding, or experience

: the limit of what is possible in a particular field or activity

Full Definition of HORIZON

a : the apparent junction of earth and sky

b : the great circle on the celestial sphere formed by the intersection of the celestial sphere with a plane tangent to the earth's surface at an observer's position — see azimuth illustration

c : range of perception or experience

d : something that might be attained <new horizons>

a : the geological deposit of a particular time usually identified by distinctive fossils

b : any of the reasonably distinct layers of soil or its underlying material in a vertical section of land

c : a cultural area or level of development indicated by separated groups of artifacts

— ho·ri·zon·al \-ˈrī-z^ən-əl\ adjective

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Origin of HORIZON

Middle English orizon, from Late Latin horizont-, horizon, from Greek horizont-, horizōn, from present participle of horizein to bound, define, from horos boundary; perhaps akin to Latin urvum curved part of a plow

First Known Use: 14th century