redline
UK[ˈrɛdlaɪn]US[ˈrɛdlaɪn]
v
to set a limit on something, especially the amount of money that can be borrowed or spent.
v
to refuse to provide a loan or insurance for people living in a particular area, often based on racial or ethnic composition (a discriminatory practice now illegal in many places).
v
to operate an engine at its maximum safe rotational speed, as indicated by a red line on a tachometer.
Morpheme Breakdown
red
line
red
line
Etymology
the compound "redline" is a modern formation from the core english words "red" and "line." its primary logic stems from the practice of marking a limit with a red line on a gauge or document. the most technical use originates in mechanical engineering, where a red line on a tachometer indicates the maximum safe rpm for an engine. this concrete imagery of a marked boundary was then extended metaphorically into financial and social contexts. in finance, it means to set a credit limit, while its most infamous application was in mid-20th century us housing policy, where banks would literally draw red lines on maps to denote districts where they would refuse loans, systematizing racial discrimination.
Analysis
Structure: red + line
- red: from old english read, of germanic origin, related to dutch rood and german rot. functions as an attributive adjective modifying the noun.
- line: from old english line, from latin linea (linen thread, string, line). functions as the core noun, denoting a mark or limit.
Examples
the bank decided to redline the entire neighborhood, making it impossible for residents to get mortgages.
the mechanic warned him not to redline the engine if he wanted it to last.
the new budget proposal redlines all departmental spending for the next quarter.