Main Entry: ¹fence

Pronunciation: \ˈfen(t)s\

Function: noun

Usage: often attributive

Etymology: Middle English fens, short for defens defense

Date: 14th century

1 archaic : a means of protection : defense
2 a : a barrier intended to prevent escape or intrusion or to mark a boundary; especially : such a barrier made of posts and wire or boards b : an immaterial barrier or boundary line <on the other side of the fence in the argument>
3 : fencing 1
4 a : a receiver of stolen goods b : a place where stolen goods are bought

— fence·less \-ləs\ adjective

— fence·less·ness noun

— on the fence : in a position of neutrality or indecision