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 of fender

• buffer
• bumper
• shield
• pad
• cushion

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

Other details include chrome side strikes with glossy black V12 Badging, Scintilla Silver thermos louvres, and fender infills that resemble polished deck hardware on the profile of a superyacht. —Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 30 Oct. 2025

Kingbull completes the package with a plush eco-leather saddle, ergonomic bars, a big color display, and full fenders. —New Atlas, 30 Oct. 2025

On the way home, the little furball escapes its box, jumps out of the car after Linda gets in a fender-bender and meets a gruesome end on the street. —Brian Truitt, USA Today, 22 Oct. 2025

But the old flivver was ticking along, reminding Drew of happy hours—leaning on opposing fenders under its hood with Lloyd, contemplating the Dart’s latest ailment. —Literary Hub, 17 Oct. 2025

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

Rhymes for fender

• bender
• blender
• gender
• lender
• mender
• prendre
• render
• sender
• slender
• splendor
• tender
• vender

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