fender

noun

fend·​er ˈfen-dər How to pronounce fender (audio)
: 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
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 adjective
fenderless adjective

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Emphasizing ruggedness and offering an open invitation to tackle dirt roads, the Bronco’s squared fenders, short overhangs, upright glass and knobby tires look more at home on mountain trails than valet lanes. Peter Lyon, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025 The body shell, fenders, and low-slung doors were hung on a ladder-type frame, primitive compared to the unibody MGB roadster that debuted in 1962. Robert Ross, Robb Report, 29 Aug. 2025 The front bumper, front headlamps, hood, grille, fender, windshield, cowl, front door and rear door were all damaged, the complaint read. Saleen Martin, USA Today, 23 Aug. 2025 Every aerodynamic surface has been revised, including a larger front splitter and new fender louvers, both of which come as part of the Evolution aero package, which also includes suspension adjustments and comfort improvements. New Atlas, 19 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fender

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of fender was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fender.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fender. Accessed 6 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

fender

noun
fend·​er ˈfen-dər How to pronounce fender (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on fender

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