(n.) That which fends off attack or danger; a defense; a
protection; a cover; security; shield.
(n.) An inclosure about a field or other space, or about any
object; especially, an inclosing structure of wood, iron, or other
material, intended to prevent intrusion from without or straying from
within.
(n.) A projection on the bolt, which passes through the tumbler
gates in locking and unlocking.
(n.) Self-defense by the use of the sword; the art and practice
of fencing and sword play; hence, skill in debate and repartee. See
Fencing.
(n.) A receiver of stolen goods, or a place where they are
received.
(v. t.) To fend off danger from; to give security to; to protect;
to guard.
(v. t.) To inclose with a fence or other protection; to secure by
an inclosure.
(v. i.) To make a defense; to guard one's self of anything, as
against an attack; to give protection or security, as by a fence.
(v. i.) To practice the art of attack and defense with the sword
or with the foil, esp. with the smallsword, using the point only.
(v. i.) Hence, to fight or dispute in the manner of fencers, that
is, by thrusting, guarding, parrying, etc.
