1. (n.) That which fends off attack or danger; a defense; a protection; a cover; security; shield.

2. (n.) An enclosure 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.

3. (n.) A projection on the bolt, which passes through the tumbler gates in locking and unlocking.

4. (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.

5. (n.) A receiver of stolen goods, or a place where they are received.

6. (v. t.) To fend off danger from; to give security to; to protect; to guard.

7. (v. t.) To enclose with a fence or other protection; to secure by an enclosure.

8. (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.

9. (v. i.) To practice the art of attack and defense with the sword or with the foil, esp. with the small sword, using the point only.

10. (v. i.) Hence, to fight or dispute in the manner of fencers, that is, by thrusting, guarding, parrying, etc.

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