fence /fens/

1. A barrier, esp of wood or wood and wire, for enclosing, bounding or protecting land
2. A barrier of varying design for a horse to jump (showjumping and steeplechasing)
3. A guard on a machine
4. A guide on a cutting tool
5. The art of fencing
6. Defence (archaic)
7. A receiver of stolen goods (criminal sl)
8. A place where stolen goods are received (criminal sl)

1. To enclose with a fence
2. To fortify
3. To shield
4. To keep off
5. To receive or dispose of (stolen goods) (criminal sl)

1. To build fences
2. To guard
3. To practise or take part in fencing
4. To be a receiver or purchaser of stolen goods (criminal sl)
5. To answer or dispute evasively
6. To leap fences

fenced adjective

Enclosed with a fence

fenceˈless adjective

Without a fence or enclosure, open

fencˈer noun

1. A person who takes part in the sport of fencing
2. A person who makes or repairs fences
3. A horse trained to jump fences in steeplechasing

fencˈible adjective

Capable of being fenced or defended

A militiaman or volunteer soldier enlisted in a crisis, esp to fight in a local or regional conflict

fencˈing adjective

Defending or guarding

1. The act of erecting a fence
2. Material for fences
3. Fences collectively
4. The act of answering or disputing evasively
5. The leaping of fences
6. Receiving stolen goods (criminal sl)
7. The act, art or sport of attack and defence with a foil, sword or similar weapon

fenceˈ-lizard noun

A small American spiny lizard (genus Sceloporus) which often suns itself on fences, paths or rocks

fenceˈ-mending see mend one's fences below.

fence month noun

Close season

fencing master or (fem) mistress noun

A man or woman who teaches the sport of fencing

fence the tables

In early, now limited, Scottish usage, to debar the unworthy from taking communion

mend one's fences

To improve or restore one's relations, reputation or popularity, esp in politics (fenceˈ-mending noun and adjective)

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