Fence
/fɛns/
Definitions
4 meaningsA barrier, usually made of posts and wire or wood, that marks a boundary or encloses an area.
/fɛns/
A structure, usually made of wood or wire, that encloses an area.
The children played in the backyard, safely enclosed by the fence.
💡 Simply: Imagine a line you draw around your toys or your yard to keep things in or out. That line could be made of wood, metal, or even plants, and we call it a fence!
👶 For kids: A fence is like a wall, but it's made of wood or wire and keeps things in or out.
More Examples
The farmer repaired the broken fence to keep his sheep from escaping.
A tall fence separated the two properties.
How It's Used
"The homeowner built a fence around the yard to keep the dog in."
"Farmers use fences to contain livestock."
To surround or protect (something) with a fence.
/fɛns/
To enclose or protect with a fence.
They fenced in the garden to keep the deer out.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're putting up a barrier, like the one around your house. You're 'fencing' something when you're making that safe space.
👶 For kids: To fence means to put a fence around something to keep it safe.
More Examples
The city plans to fence off the park during the festival.
We need to fence the property before the animals get out.
How It's Used
"They fenced the construction site to prevent unauthorized entry."
"The property owner fenced the area to deter trespassers."
To sell stolen goods to a buyer who then resells them.
/fɛns/
To sell stolen goods.
The suspect was accused of fencing stolen jewelry.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone stealing something and then finding a way to sell it to others without getting caught. That shady business is called 'fencing'.
👶 For kids: This fence is bad! It means to sell things that someone stole.
More Examples
The police were trying to catch the people fencing the stolen electronics.
Fencing stolen goods is a serious crime.
How It's Used
"The detective was investigating a case where someone was fencing stolen art."
A person who practices or competes in the sport of fencing.
/fɛns/
A participant in the sport of fencing.
The fencer was very talented.
💡 Simply: It is someone who does the sport using swords.
👶 For kids: A fencer is someone who does sword fights.
More Examples
The fencer's quick movements won the match.
The fencer trained hard to improve.
How It's Used
"The fencers prepared for their match."
Idioms & expressions
sit on the fence
To avoid taking sides or making a decision.
"During the debate, the politician tried to sit on the fence, avoiding a firm stance."
From Middle English fens, fense, from Old French fense, defense, from Latin dēfēnsa, feminine past participle of dēfendere (“to defend”).
The word 'fence' has been used since the 13th century, initially referring to defensive structures.
Memory tip
Think of a protective barrier, like a sports team's defense.
Word Origin
"defense"