[fɛns], (Noun)

Definitions:
- a barrier, railing, or other upright structure, typically of wood or wire, enclosing an area of ground to prevent or control access or escape

- a guard or guide on a plane, saw, or other tool

- a person who deals in stolen goods


Phrases:
- outside the fences
- over the fence
- side of the fence
- sit on the fence

Origin:
Middle English (in the sense ‘defending, defence’): shortening of defence. Compare with fencible and fend

[fɛns], (Verb)

Definitions:
- surround or protect with a fence
(e.g: our garden was not fully fenced)

- buy or sell (stolen goods)
(e.g: after stealing your ring, he didn't even know how to fence it)

- engage in the sport of fencing


Phrases:
- outside the fences
- over the fence
- side of the fence
- sit on the fence

Origin:
Middle English (in the sense ‘defending, defence’): shortening of defence. Compare with fencible and fend