schermen

Schermen is a Dutch word with several related meanings. As a noun, it denotes screens or shields used to block light, protect privacy, or guard against dust. In interior design, schermen are movable or folding partitions made of wood, fabric, metal, or glass that divide spaces or conceal areas. They range from simple room dividers to decorative elements and are common in homes, theatres, and offices.

In Dutch, the sport of fencing is called schermen. Fencing originated in Europe as a weapon-based discipline and evolved into a modern competitive sport. Dutch fencing includes three weapons: foil, épée, and sabre. International competition is governed by the Fédération Internationale d'Escrime (FIE), with national federations organizing domestic events. Modern bouts take place on a piste, use electronic scoring, and require protective equipment such as masks, jackets, plastrons, and gloves. Scoring depends on touches, and strategy centers on attack and defense, with techniques like parries and ripostes, as well as precise footwork and distance control.

Etymology: The term schermen shares roots with the English "screen" and the German "Schirm"—all linked to protection or shielding. In Dutch, schermen also serves as the plural of scherm (singular: scherm), meaning a screen or shield, and as the name of the sport.