The Collaborative International Dictionary
Fence \Fence\ (f[e^]ns), n. [Abbrev. from defence.]
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That which fends off attack or danger; a defense; a protection; a cover; security; shield.
Let us be backed with God and with the seas, Which he hath given for fence impregnable.
--Shak.A fence betwixt us and the victor's wrath.
--Addison. -
An inclosure 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.
Leaps o'er the fence with ease into the fold.
--Milton.Note: In England a hedge, ditch, or wall, as well as a structure of boards, palings, or rails, is called a fence.
(Locks) A projection on the bolt, which passes through the tumbler gates in locking and unlocking.
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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.
Enjoy your dear wit, and gay rhetoric, That hath so well been taught her dazzing fence.
--Milton.Of dauntless courage and consummate skill in fence.
--Macaulay. -
A receiver of stolen goods, or a place where they are received. [Slang]
--Mayhew.Fence month (Forest Law), the month in which female deer are fawning, when hunting is prohibited.
--Bullokar.Fence roof, a covering for defense. ``They fitted their shields close to one another in manner of a fence roof.''
--Holland.Fence time, the breeding time of fish or game, when they should not be killed.
Rail fence, a fence made of rails, sometimes supported by posts.
Ring fence, a fence which encircles a large area, or a whole estate, within one inclosure.
Worm fence, a zigzag fence composed of rails crossing one another at their ends; -- called also snake fence, or Virginia rail fence.
To be on the fence, to be undecided or uncommitted in respect to two opposing parties or policies. [Colloq.]
WordNet
n. rail fence consisting of a zigzag of interlocking rails [syn: worm fence, snake-rail fence, Virginia fence]
Usage examples of "snake fence".
But I should have known that Father still held him, because I should have seen that he was still boring, but there was a snake fence along the road, and all of a sudden it began to blur, and then I realised that Father and Jupiter had not moved up at all, that it was all three of us flattening out up toward the crest of the hill where the road dipped like three swallows, and I was thinking, 'We're holding Jupiter.
They came in good order, kick-ing down a snake fence and then advancing across a pasture.
She left the road where it turned south, at the corner of the Limberlost, climbed a snake fence and entered a path worn by her own feet.
They went down the road to the swamp, climbed the snake fence, followed the path to the old trail and then turned south upon it.