fence

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   A barrier of wood, wire, or metal that encloses or divides an area of land.

   There was a weak spot in the fence between the two gardens.

2. 2
   verb

   To surround or enclose an area with a fence.

   We fenced in our yard to keep the dog safe.

3. 3
   noun

   A person who buys and sells stolen goods.

   The thief sold the jewellery to a local fence.

4. 4
   noun

   The sport of fighting with thin swords.

   He learned the art of fence as a young man.

From Middle English fence, fens, short for defence, defens (“the act of defending”), from Old French defens, defense (see defence). The sense "enclosure" arises in the mid 15th century. Also from the 15th century is use as a verb in the sense "to enclose with a fence". The generalized sense "to defend, screen, protect" arises ca. 1500. The sense "to fight with swords (rapiers)" is from the 1590s (Shakespeare). Displaced native Old English heġe (compare Modern English hedge).

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