as in repels
to drive back
the herd fended off attacking hyenas
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fends (off)
Verb
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Political interference in mergers and acquisitions approvals and daily operations repels foreign investment and damages confidence in market operations.—
Jeffrey Sonnenfeld,
Time,
13 Jan. 2026 -
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne, also known as the Fawn Colored Brittany Basset, is a hound with coarse, wiry fur that conveniently repels dirt and does not mat, according to the AKC.—
Desiree Anello,
PEOPLE,
30 Dec. 2025
Verb
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The upholstery resists stretching and is simple to maintain, while the high-density foam cushions soften and shape to you over time.—
Mariana Best,
Better Homes & Gardens,
13 Jan. 2026
-
Unlike traditional cast-iron skillets, this one is coated in a black satin enamel that prevents food from sticking to the bottom, resists rust, and doesn’t require seasoning or regular upkeep.—
Alicia Geigel,
Southern Living,
13 Jan. 2026
Verb
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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
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And Keenan Allen turns back the clock.—
Joe Nguyen,
Denver Post,
21 Sep. 2025
Verb
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For instance, with the North Node moving into Aquarius (your eighth house of intimacy) and the South Node in Leo, your focus turns away from clinging to pride and comfort, and toward deeper emotional exchange.—
Valerie Mesa,
PEOPLE,
7 Jan. 2026
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Timothée Chalamet returns alongside Zendaya and Florence Pugh as the film turns away from conquest and toward consequence.—
Glenn Whipp,
Los Angeles Times,
1 Jan. 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 20 Jan. 2026.
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