noun
demarcation
dee-mar-KAY-shun/ˌdiːmɑːrˈkeɪʃn/
The marking of a boundary or distinction between things.
The surveyor uses stakes and cord to show the demarcation between plots.
Etymology
The boundary-marking root reflects the word’s original reference to a line dividing overseas territories between Spain and Portugal. That concrete dividing line became a general term for setting boundaries or distinctions.
In context
God says there is a line of demarcation that I draw and no man can cross it
More examples
- The agreement establishes a clear demarcation between the two teams' responsibilities.
- Yellow paint provides a demarcation between the cycle lane and the pavement.
- There is no sharp demarcation between childhood and adulthood.
Forms
demarcation · demarcations
demarcate verb — to mark the limits of something
Similar words
- boundary
- Names the dividing line itself rather than its establishment.
- distinction
- Emphasizes a difference between things, not a physical boundary.