verb
fence
To fight with sporting swords.
Two athletes fence while a referee watches their movements closely.
Etymology
Fence is shortened from defence. Its sword-fighting use grew from the practice or art of defending oneself with a weapon.
More examples
- She fences with the college team twice a week.
- I fenced against the defending champion in the final round.
- The beginners are fencing with foils and wearing protective masks.
Forms
fence · fences · fenced · fencing
fencer noun — A person who fights with sporting swords.
fencing noun — The sport of fighting with swords.
Similar words
- duel
- Suggests a formal fight, not necessarily a sporting contest.