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

The odometer read 75,000 miles at the time, and although the driver’s side front fender had a slight color mis-match, suggesting a re-paint at some point in its past, the Firebird’s overall exterior and interior still looked great. —Karl Brauer, Forbes, 26 Sep. 2024

While the victim in the other vehicle was uninjured, a bullet hole was found in the car’s right fender. —Devan Patel, The Mercury News, 3 Aug. 2024

There’s also a bespoke selection of G Line specific accessories allowing owners to fit luggage racks, fenders, and a variety of bags. —Carlton Reid, Forbes, 17 Sep. 2024

They are designed to accommodate racks, baskets, fenders, and bags—whatever is useful for cross-country touring, local bike camping, and running errands. —Anna Wiener, The New Yorker, 16 Sep. 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