fends

Fends is a word with two primary uses in English: as a verb form and, rarely, as a noun within historical or technical contexts. As a verb, fend is to ward off, defend against, or manage something challenging. The third-person singular present tense is fends (he fends off the attack; she fends for herself).

As a noun, fend is much less common in modern everyday language but occurs in specialized or historical contexts. In these uses, a fend can refer to a defensive device, barrier, or screening element that provides protection or separation. Historically or in technical writing, the term may describe partitions or obstacles intended to shield a person, structure, or space from danger or intrusion.

Common phrases and examples

- Fend off: to repel or block something harmful, such as an attacker, a disease, or an adverse condition.

- Fend for oneself: to take responsibility for one’s own needs and safety, often in the absence of assistance.

- In nautical or fortification contexts, fends (as a noun) may denote protective barriers or screens used to reduce impact or intrusion, though this noun sense is uncommon in modern usage.

Etymology and usage

Fend as a verb is widely used across everyday English in a variety of contexts, especially in security, sports, and self-reliance. The noun form fend appears primarily in historical, architectural, or specialized technical texts and is not a common everyday term. Overall, speakers are most likely to encounter fend in its verbal sense rather than as a standalone noun.