B1noun2K

Fence

UK /["/fens/"]/US /["/fens/"]/

Definition

a structure made of wood or wire supported with posts that is put between two areas of land as a boundary, or around a garden, field, etc. to keep animals in, or to keep people and animals out

In simple words: A fence is a structure made of wood, metal, or other materials that surrounds an area.

Examples

  • We need to build a fence around the garden to keep the rabbits out.
  • The old wooden fence was rotting and needed to be replaced.
  • He was looking over the fence to see what the neighbors were doing.
  • She painted the fence a bright blue to match the house.
  • In tennis, the ball hit the fence and ended the game.
  • He had to fence the area to protect it from animals.
  • They decided to fence off the construction site for safety reasons.

Usage notes

Use 'fence' when referring to barriers in outdoor spaces. It’s appropriate in home improvement contexts but might be less relevant in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'fancy fence' that decorates your yard!

Collocations

  • high
  • tall
  • low
  • build
  • erect
  • put up
  • post
  • line
  • over a/​the fence
  • fence around
  • fence round

Synonyms

  • barrier
  • enclosure
  • palisade
  • wall
  • hedge

Antonyms

  • opening
  • gate
  • freedom

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'defence' in British English.
  • Used as a verb rather than a noun in casual contexts.
  • Incorrectly spelled as 'fencee'.