First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1fend
verb \ˈfend\
Definition of FEND
transitive verb
1
: defend
2
: to keep or ward off : repel —often used with off <fend off an invader>
3
dial British : to provide for : support
intransitive verb
1
dial British : to make an effort : struggle
2
a : to try to get along without help : shift <had to fend for themselves> b : to provide a livelihood
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Origin of FEND
Middle English fenden, short for defenden
Related to FEND
2fend
noun
Definition of FEND
chiefly Scottish : an effort or attempt especially for oneself
First Known Use of FEND
1721
FEND Defined for Kids
fend
verb \ˈfend\
fend·edfend·ing
Definition of FEND for Kids
1
: to drive away or repel <I tried to fend off an attack.>
2
: to get along without help <You'll have to fend for yourself.>
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