as in repels
to drive back
the herd fended off attacking hyenas
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fends (off)
Verb
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Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed an ultra-stretchable material that repels nearly any liquid and holds up under extreme deformation.—
Neetika Walter,
Interesting Engineering,
17 Feb. 2026 -
This creates a thin barrier that repels buildup.—
Louise Parks,
Martha Stewart,
17 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Charlie, though, is trying to keep them out of a country that thoroughly repulses him.—
Alexander Nazaryan,
New Yorker,
10 Feb. 2026
Verb
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If a partner or key ally resists a plan, ask what outcome matters most to them before offering your creative solution.—
Tarot.com,
Chicago Tribune,
17 Feb. 2026
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Friction-maxxing, originally coined to describe a parenting strategy that resists using a screen to address a child’s behavior, is now used to push back against the culture of convenience.—
Allan Smith,
NBC news,
16 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Their discussion then turns back to the potential of a romance—and heartbreak—between them.—
Bailey Bujnosek,
InStyle,
21 Feb. 2026
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Doing so will ensure your paperwork is processed and ready to go when the spigot turns back on.—
Cathie Anderson,
Sacbee.com,
30 Oct. 2025
Verb
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And this worry usually arises when a dog turns away from food, gets a stomach ache, or loses energy.—
Lyssanoel Frater,
USA Today,
17 Feb. 2026
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My body turns away before my mind can catch up.—
Valeng Cha,
Twin Cities,
8 Feb. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Fends (off).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fends%20%28off%29. Accessed 25 Feb. 2026.
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