fender

noun

fend·​er ˈfen-dər 

: a device that protects: such as

a(1)

: a cushion (such as foam rubber or a wood float) between a boat and a dock or between two boats that lessens shock and prevents chafing

(2)

: a pile or a row or cluster of piles placed to protect a dock or bridge pier from damage by ships or floating objects

b

: railing

c

: a device in front of locomotives and streetcars to lessen injury to animals or pedestrians in case of collision

d

: a guard over the wheel of a motor vehicle

e

: a low metal frame or a screen before an open fireplace

f

: an oblong or triangular shield of leather attached to the stirrup leather of a saddle to protect a rider's legs

fendered

ˈfen-dərd 

adjective

fenderless adjective

Synonyms

• buffer
• bumper
• cocoon
• cushion
• cushioning
• pad

Examples of fender in a Sentence

not wanting our brand-new cabin cruiser to get scratched, we put thick rubber fenders between it and the dock

Recent Examples on the Web

Photo : James Lipman, courtesy of the Morgan Motor Company The driver, seated low, must rely on the hood and front fenders as reference points when piloting the machine. —Robert Ross, Robb Report, 29 Mar. 2024

However, it is not yet known whether or not the Baltimore Key Bridge had fenders at the time of the crash. —Leah Sarnoff, ABC News, 27 Mar. 2024

Experts indicated the Key Bridge appeared to have dolphins, while photos taken before the bridge collapse suggested a lack of fenders, which would shield the columns themselves. —Dakin Andone, CNN, 27 Mar. 2024

All of our bridges have a robust fender system that are designed to absorb energy. —Paul Rogers, The Mercury News, 26 Mar. 2024

Boxy lines, fender flares and round headlights all contribute to the aesthetic, as do a split barn-door tailgate, roof rails and knobby tires. —Michael Van Runkle, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2024

Featuring ivory bodywork with dark blue fenders and trim, the car was restored by Sargent Metal Works, in Vermont, after being acquired by the Mullin Collection. —Robert Ross, Robb Report, 1 Apr. 2024

Structures called fenders and dolphins — which absorb impact, similar to the bumper on a car — are some of the methods used to keep bridges safe. —Laura Geller, CBS News, 29 Mar. 2024

Then, Pierson spotted a white Chevrolet truck with brown fenders and a state police emblem. —The Courier-Journal, 28 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English fendour, fendere "defender, device for protecting the hull of a beached ship," from fenden "to defend, ward off, fend entry 1" + -our, -ere -er entry 2

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing fender

• fender bender

Kids Definition

fender

noun

fend·​er ˈfen-dər 

: a device that protects: as

a

: a frame in front of a locomotive or streetcar to catch or throw off anything that is hit

b

: a guard over a wheel of an automobile, motorcycle, or bicycle

c

: a low metal frame or screen placed on the hearth before an open fireplace