[fence] n, often attrib [ME fens, short for defens defense] (14c) 1 archaic: a means of protection: defense
2: a barrier intended to prevent escape or intrusion or to mark a boundary; esp: such a barrier made of posts and wire or boards
3: fencing 1
4. a: a receiver of stolen goods b: a place where stolen goods are bought -- fence.less adj -- fence.less.ness n -- on the fence : in a position of neutrality or indecision
[2]fence vb fenced ; fenc.ing vt (15c) 1 a: to enclose with a fence b (1): to keep in or out with a fence (2): to ward off
2: to provide a defense for
3: to sell (stolen property) to a fence ~ vi 1 a: to practice fencing b (1): to use tactics of attack and defense resembling those of fencing (2): to parry arguments by shifting ground
2. archaic: to provide protection -- fenc.er n