ˈfendə(r) noun
( -s )
Usage: often attributive
Etymology: Middle English fendour, from fenden, v. + -our -or
1. : a device attached or set up to prevent something from sustaining or inflicting damage: as
a.
(1) : a buffer (as a camel or pudding) between a ship and wharf or between two ships that absorbs and distributes shock and prevents chafing
(2) : a pile or a row or cluster of piles placed to protect a dock or bridge pier from damage by docking ships or floating objects
(3) : a timber or other obstruction set up to protect a scaffold base from impact or interference
b.
(1) : a low often ornamental fence of iron or brass set before a hearth to confine coals and ashes — see curb 5g
(2) : fire screen
c. : a device in front of a locomotive or streetcar that is designed to catch or throw aside an object struck
d.
(1) : a guard or protective covering over a wheel of an automobile or other vehicle
(2) Britain : bumper IV 2a
e. : a rail in a farrowing pen that prevents the sow from crushing the little pigs against the wall when she lies down
f. : a sheet temporarily inserted between the pastedown and flyleaf of a book in the course of binding to protect the pages (as from paste and pressure on the covers)
g. : an oblong or triangular shield of leather attached to the stirrup leather of a saddle to protect a rider's legs — see stock saddle illustration
2. : a strip of stiff paper glued to the tympan of a platen press to prevent the sheets from sliding over the feed guides