fences

fenc-es · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Plural of "fence"; barriers enclosing areas of ground.

  2. 2.

    Third person singular present tense of "fence."

  3. 3.

    (slang) Persons who deal in stolen goods.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    mend fences — To repair relationships or disputes
  • •
    swing for the fences — To attempt something ambitious (from baseball)
  • •
    broken fences — Damaged relationships

Related words

See also: barriers, fence, fencing
Synonyms: barriers, enclosures, railings

Etymology

From Middle English fens, short for defens ("defense"). The plural form adds the standard -es suffix after the sibilant ending.