fender

Meanings

Plural: fenders

Noun

• a barrier that surrounds the wheels of a vehicle to block splashing water or mud
  • "in Britain they call a fender a wing"
• an inclined metal frame at the front of a locomotive to clear the track
• a low metal guard to confine falling coals to a hearth
• a cushion-like device that reduces shock due to an impact
• panel of a car which encloses the wheel area, especially the front wheels.
• a shield, usually of plastic or metal, on a bicycle that protects the rider from mud or water
• any shaped cushion-like object normally made from polymers, rubber or wood that is placed along the sides of a boat to prevent damage when moored alongside another vessel or jetty, or when using a lock, etc. Modern variations are cylindrical although older wooden version and rubbing strips can still be found; old tyres are used as a cheap substitute
• a low metal framework in front of a fireplace, intended to catch hot coals, soot, and ash

Verb

• To use fenders to protect the side of a boat

Synonyms

buffer, cowcatcher, guard, mudguard, pilot, wheel arch, wing