fence

noun

UK/fens/
US/fens/

Definitions of fence noun

structure

  1. B2Countable

    A structure, typically made of wood or wire and supported by posts, used to divide two areas of land.

    • The fence around the farm prevented animals from entering the field.

    • They put up a wooden fence around the garden to protect the plants.

    • The family installed a wire fence in the backyard to ensure their dog wouldn't run away.

criminal

  1. Countableold-fashioned

    An individual who engages in the buying and selling of stolen property.

    • The police arrested the suspected fence involved in illegal activities.

    • The thief sold his stolen jewelry to a local fence.

    • They suspected that the pawn shop owner was actually a fence.

verb

UK/fens/
US/fens/

Definitions of fence verb

  1. Intransitive

    To engage in the sport of fighting with a long, thin sword.

    • They practice fencing weekly at the club.

    • She dreams of becoming an Olympic fencer.

    • Fencing requires agile footwork and precise attacks.

Phrasal Verbs of fence

  • fence something in

    to enclose an area by constructing a fence around it

    They decided to fence in the garden with a tall fence to keep small animals out.

  • fence something off

    to enclose an area using a fence to prevent people or animals from gaining access

    The farmer fenced off the field to keep the cows and sheep out.

  • fence someone in

    to restrict an individual's activities in a manner that leads to frustration or dissatisfaction

    This excessive monitoring can fence employees in, leaving them feeling frustrated.