cut-off
UK[ˈkʌt ɒf]US[ˈkʌt ɔːf]
n
A point or limit beyond which something is no longer possible or allowed.
n
A fixed point at which something is stopped or separated.
adj
Having been stopped or interrupted; separated or isolated.
Morpheme Breakdown
cut
off
cut
to sever
off
away, from
Etymology
The compound noun 'cut-off' is a relatively modern formation, emerging from the phrasal verb 'to cut off'. The verb 'cut' has a complex and debated etymology, potentially entering Middle English from Old Norse, while 'off' is a fundamental Germanic adverb of separation from Old English. The literal action of 'cutting something off'—severing it so a part is removed—provides a powerful and concrete metaphor. This metaphor was logically extended to abstract boundaries, giving us the modern meanings of a fixed limit, a stopping point, or a state of isolation, where continuation or connection is figuratively severed.
Analysis
Structure: cut (to sever) + off (away, from)
cut: From Middle English 'cutten', of uncertain origin, possibly from Old Norse or a North Germanic source. Its functional role is the core verb meaning 'to sever or divide with a sharp instrument'.
off: From Old English 'of', meaning 'away, from, off'. Its functional role is an adverbial particle indicating separation, cessation, or removal.
Examples
The application deadline is a strict cut-off; submissions received after 5 PM will not be considered.
After the storm, several villages were cut-off from the main road.
The doctor recommended a cut-off age for routine screening.