I. ˈfend verb
Etymology: Middle English fenden, short for defenden
Date: 14th century
transitive verb
1. : defend
2. : to keep or ward off : repel — often used with off
fend off an invader
3. dialect British : to provide for : support
intransitive verb
1. dialect British : to make an effort : struggle
2.
a. : to try to get along without help : shift
had to fend for themselves
b. : to provide a livelihood
II. noun
Date: 1721
chiefly Scottish : an effort or attempt especially for oneself