# borders

/ˈbɔɹdɝz/ (US) · /bˈɔːdəz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/borders
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. national boundaries

noun · CEFR A2

the official lines that separate two countries or regions.

For teachers: the geopolitical boundaries separating different nations, states, or administrative regions.

- The travelers had to show their passports when they crossed the borders between the two countries.
- Strict regulations were implemented at the national borders to monitor the flow of goods and ensure compliance with international trade agreements.

Usage: often used with the definite article 'the' when referring to international travel.

### 2. decorative edges

noun · CEFR B1

the outer edges of something, often used for decoration.

For teachers: the decorative or functional margins surrounding an object, such as a garden bed or a printed page.

- She planted colorful flowers along the borders of her garden to make it look beautiful.
- The manuscript featured intricate gold-leaf borders that framed the text, reflecting the high status of its original owner.

### 3. to be next to

verb · CEFR B1

to be right next to another place or thing.

For teachers: to share a common boundary with another geographical area or object.

- France borders several other European countries, including Spain and Germany.
- The nature reserve borders a densely populated urban area, creating a unique challenge for local wildlife conservation efforts.

Usage: takes a direct object without a preposition.

## Examples

- The train crosses three national borders during the trip.
- Travelers must show their passports when they reach the borders of the European Union.
- The treaty aimed to resolve long-standing disputes regarding maritime borders, ensuring both nations had equitable access to the offshore fishing grounds and mineral resources.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.