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fend off

phrasal verb

Definition of fend off

: to defend oneself against (someone or something)
  • They succeeded in fending off the attack/attackers.
  • They have had to fend off allegations of voter fraud.

Word by Word Definitions

fend play

  1. : defend

  2. : to keep or ward off : repel

  3. : to provide for : support

  1. : an effort or attempt especially for oneself

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off play

  1. : from a place or position

  2. : at a distance in space or time

  3. : from a course : aside

  1. used as a function word to indicate physical separation or distance from a position of rest, attachment, or union

  2. : to seaward of

  3. : from the possession or charge of

  1. : seaward

  2. : right

  3. : more removed or distant

  1. : to go away : depart

  2. : kill, murder

  1. : competition : contest

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