2 definitions by Quaght
1. A pale is an old term for a fencepost or a fence, thus a barrier. Those within the barrier were civilized because it was usually a large building, castle, tract of land, or town. Those outside the barrier, or "beyond the pale", were uncivilized and not under control.
2. Outside the bounds of acceptable behavior.
2. Outside the bounds of acceptable behavior.
"This scallywag's actions are beyond the pale."
by Quaght September 1, 2003