Pronunciation

/fens/

Definitions

• Noun: (n) A barrier typically made from posts connected by boards, wire, or rails, designed to enclose, divide, or protect an area of land. Example: “The farmer built a new fence around his property.”
• Verb: (v) To enclose or separate with a fence. Example: “They decided to fence their backyard to keep their dog from running away.”
• Noun: (n, figurative) A means of defense, protection, or safeguard; often used metaphorically. Example: “His quick wit was a fence against insults.”
• Verb: (v, sports) In certain sports such as fencing, to parry or make a defensive move with a sword. Example: “The fencer fenced skillfully against her opponent.”
• Verb: (v, informal) To sell stolen goods, usually to a pawnbroker or other receiver of stolen property. Example: “The thief fenced the stolen jewels through an underground network.”

Phrases

• “Good fences make good neighbors”: Meaning that clear boundaries can help maintain positive relationships between people.
• “On the fence”: To be undecided about something, not taking a definite position.
• “Fence-sitter”: A person who remains neutral or noncommittal, especially in a dispute or contest.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The old stone fence along the countryside had been standing for centuries.”
• Verb: “We’re planning to fence off the garden to prevent rabbits from eating our vegetables.”
• Metaphorical use: “Her sense of humor acted as a fence against life’s difficulties.”
• Sports: “After years of training, he finally learned how to fence effectively.”

Synonyms

• Enclosure
• Barrier
• Boundary
• Railings
• Palisade (for physical fences)
• Deflect (for the sports usage)
• Parry (for the sports usage)
• Disguise (for the informal, criminal usage)