First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1fence
noun, often attributive \ˈfen(t)s\
: a structure like a wall built outdoors usually of wood or metal that separates two areas or prevents people or animals from entering or leaving
: a person who buys stolen property from thieves and sells it
Full Definition of FENCE
1
archaic : a means of protection : defense
2
a : a barrier intended to prevent escape or intrusion or to mark a boundary; especially : such a barrier made of posts and wire or boards b : an immaterial barrier or boundary line <on the other side of the fence in the argument>
3
: fencing 1
4
a : a receiver of stolen goods b : a place where stolen goods are bought
— fence·less \-ləs\ adjective
— fence·less·ness noun
— on the fence
: in a position of neutrality or indecision
See fence defined for English-language learners
See fence defined for kids
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Origin of FENCE
Middle English fens, short for defens defense
2fence
verb
: to put a fence around (a place or area)
: to keep (something or someone) in or out with a fence
: to fight with swords : to practice the art or sport of fencing
fencedfenc·ing
Full Definition of FENCE
transitive verb
1
a : to enclose with a fence b (1) : to keep in or out with a fence (2) : to ward off
2
: to provide a defense for
3
: to sell (stolen property) to a fence
intransitive verb
1
a : to practice fencing b (1) : to use tactics of attack and defense resembling those of fencing (2) : to parry arguments by shifting ground
2
archaic : to provide protection
— fenc·er noun
See fence defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of FENCE
15th century
Related to FENCE
FENCE Defined for Kids
1fence
noun \ˈfens\
Definition of FENCE for Kids
: a barrier (as of wood or wire) to prevent escape or entry or to mark a boundary
2fence
verb
fencedfenc·ing
Definition of FENCE for Kids
1
: to enclose with a fence <fence a yard>
2
: to fight with swords : to practice the sport of fencing
— fenc·er noun
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