Fence Meaning and Definition
Fence
Pronunciation
/fɛns/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A structure that encloses or divides an area, typically made of wood, metal, or plastic, used for a variety of purposes, including property boundary marking, safety, and aesthetics.
Examples
- They built a fence around their backyard to keep the dogs out.
- The fence surrounding the construction site was designed to keep out unauthorized access.
Synonyms
- Railing
- Boundary
- Enclosure
Antonyms
- Open
- Unrestricted
Additional Information
Fences are used for a variety of purposes, including marking property boundaries, keeping out unwanted visitors or pets, and providing a sense of security. They can be made from a range of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and concrete.
Fences also play a significant role in many cultures and societies, serving as a symbol of ownership, wealth, and status.
Etymology
The word “fence” has its origins in Old French “fence,” which is derived from the Latin “finis,” meaning “boundary” or “end.” Over time, the meaning of the word has expanded to include a wide range of structures and purposes.
Usage Notes
When using the word “fence” in writing or speech, it’s important to consider the context and the intended meaning. For example, a “fence” can refer to a physical barrier, but it can also connote a sense of separation or division.
Cultural References
The word “fence” appears in many cultural references, including literature, music, and film. For example, the phrase “to fence with someone” is commonly used to describe a competitive or confrontational relationship.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
The word “fence” is often used in idiomatic expressions, such as “eating around the edges of a fence” (meaning to manipulate or evade someone) or “to fence off a small area” (meaning to reserve or prioritize something).
Related Words or Phrases
Collocations
The word “fence” often collocates with words such as “metal,” “wooden,” “high,” and “low” to describe its material, height, or purpose.
Frequency of Use
The word “fence” is a common term in everyday language, with a frequency of use that is moderately high.
Common Misspellings
The most common misspellings of the word “fence” include “fense,” “fennce,” “faence,” and “finence.”