fender

noun

fend·​er ˈfen-dər 

: a device that protects: such as

a(1)

: a cushion (such as foam rubber or a wood float) between a boat and a dock or between two boats that lessens 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 ships or floating objects

b

: railing

c

: a device in front of locomotives and streetcars to lessen injury to animals or pedestrians in case of collision

d

: a guard over the wheel of a motor vehicle

e

: a low metal frame or a screen before an open fireplace

f

: an oblong or triangular shield of leather attached to the stirrup leather of a saddle to protect a rider's legs

fendered

ˈfen-dərd 

adjective

fenderless adjective

Synonyms

• buffer
• bumper
• cocoon
• cushion
• cushioning
• pad

Examples of fender in a Sentence

not wanting our brand-new cabin cruiser to get scratched, we put thick rubber fenders between it and the dock

Recent Examples on the Web

Rodin Cars That effort resulted in the concept behind this machine: a single-seat, closed-canopy, open-wheel racecar with absolutely massive fenders, a custom engine, and aerodynamics designed for a boatload of downforce. —New Atlas, 2 Jan. 2025

It is finished in a rather fetching metallic blue and white paint and features a white no. 1 racing gumball on the hood and fenders. —Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 2 Jan. 2025

In true street truck style, this F100’s ride height is lowered with aftermarket Fox coilover suspension, and tucked under its brawny fenders are 19-inch front and 20-inch rear Forgeline wheels wrapped in thick Michelin summer rubber. —Peter Nelson, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024

The rear fender curves along the rear wheel and is a nice touch. —New Atlas, 19 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English fendour, fendere "defender, device for protecting the hull of a beached ship," from fenden "to defend, ward off, fend entry 1" + -our, -ere -er entry 2

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing fender

• fender bender

Kids Definition

fender

noun

fend·​er ˈfen-dər 

: a device that protects: as

a

: a frame in front of a locomotive or streetcar to catch or throw off anything that is hit

b

: a guard over a wheel of an automobile, motorcycle, or bicycle

c

: a low metal frame or screen placed on the hearth before an open fireplace