Definition of fence

• n. - That which fends off attack or danger; a defense; a protection; a cover; security; shield.
• n. - An inclosure about a field or other space, or about any object; especially, an inclosing structure of wood, iron, or other material, intended to prevent intrusion from without or straying from within.
• n. - A projection on the bolt, which passes through the tumbler gates in locking and unlocking.
• n. - Self-defense by the use of the sword; the art and practice of fencing and sword play; hence, skill in debate and repartee. See Fencing.
• n. - A receiver of stolen goods, or a place where they are received.
• v. t. - To fend off danger from; to give security to; to protect; to guard.
• v. t. - To inclose with a fence or other protection; to secure by an inclosure.
• v. i. - To make a defense; to guard one's self of anything, as against an attack; to give protection or security, as by a fence.
• v. i. - To practice the art of attack and defense with the sword or with the foil, esp. with the smallsword, using the point only.
• v. i. - Hence, to fight or dispute in the manner of fencers, that is, by thrusting, guarding, parrying, etc.