fence
|fence|
B1
/fɛns/
barrier or enclosure
Etymology
Etymology Information
'fence' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'fens,' which was a short form of 'defens,' meaning 'defense.'
Historical Evolution
'fens' transformed into the modern English word 'fence' through the process of linguistic simplification.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'defense or protection,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a barrier or enclosure.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a barrier, railing, or other upright structure, typically of wood or wire, enclosing an area of ground to prevent or control access or escape.
The garden is surrounded by a wooden fence.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35