fence

[fens]

fence Definition

  • 1a barrier enclosing an area, typically made of posts or stakes and wire or wood, used for protection or to prevent escape or entry
  • 2a person who buys and sells stolen goods

Using fence: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "fence" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The farmer built a fence around his property to keep the animals in.

  • Example

    The prisoners escaped by climbing over the fence.

  • Example

    He was caught selling stolen goods to a fence.

  • Example

    The fence offered to buy the stolen jewelry from the thief.

fence Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for fence

Phrases with fence

  • mend fences

    to repair or restore a damaged relationship

    Example

    After their argument, they decided to meet and mend fences.

  • to remain neutral or undecided in a dispute or controversy

    Example

    He didn't want to take sides, so he sat on the fence during the debate.

  • to illegally cross a boundary or border

    Example

    The smugglers jumped the fence to enter the country.

Origins of fence

from Old French 'defens', meaning 'defense'

📌

Summary: fence in Brief

A 'fence' [fens] is a barrier made of posts or stakes and wire or wood, used for protection or to prevent escape or entry. It can also refer to a person who buys and sells stolen goods. The phrase 'mend fences' means to repair a damaged relationship, while 'sit on the fence' means to remain neutral in a dispute. 'Jump the fence' means to illegally cross a boundary.

How do native speakers use this expression?