Hard cap

LIMIT

Think of the word that defines the highest point something can reach before stopping.

"Hard cap" is a straightforward clue where "hard" emphasizes something strict or unyielding, and "cap" suggests an upper boundary. Together, they hint at a firm restriction, which is exactly what "limit" means—a fixed point that can't be exceeded. The wordplay is simple but effective, relying on the literal meanings of both words to guide you to the answer.