How Do You Spell FENCE?

Pronunciation: [fˈɛns] (IPA)

The word "fence" is spelled as /fɛns/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The letter "f" represents the sound of voiceless labiodental fricative, followed by the vowel sound of "ɛ" which is a front, unrounded, open-mid vowel. The letter "n" represents the sound of alveolar nasal consonant which is formed by placing the tip of the tongue behind the teeth. The final "s" represents the sound of voiceless alveolar fricative. Hence, the spelling of the word "fence" is phonetically representative of its pronunciation.

FENCE Meaning and Definition

  1. A fence is a physical structure typically made of wood, metal, or wire mesh that serves as a barrier or enclosure to demarcate a specific area. It is commonly erected around residential properties, farms, gardens, or public areas to provide security, privacy, or to mark boundaries. The purpose of a fence varies, including preventing trespassing or unauthorized access, deterring animals or intruders, and ensuring the safety of individuals or property within its confines.

    Fences can be constructed in various styles and heights, based on the intended use or aesthetic preferences. They may consist of vertical posts firmly rooted in the ground, connected by horizontal rails or wires. Some fences employ additional elements like pickets, lattice, or panels to enhance their visual appeal or functionality. Fences can range from low-profile structures that merely serve as visual markers to tall, solid walls that provide complete privacy and security.

    The term "fence" can also be used figuratively to describe a metaphorical barrier or boundary that separates two groups, individuals, or ideas. In this sense, a fence represents an obstacle in communication, collaboration, or understanding between different entities. The concept of a fence can be applied in various contexts, such as politics, social interactions, or even ideologies, where it symbolizes divisions, restrictions, or exclusions that hinder unity or mutual cooperation.

  2. • A boundary composed of a hedge, or line of posts or stakes driven into the ground; guard; security.
    • To enclose with a hedge or wall of posts; to protect or guard; to defend by giving and avoiding blows, as with a foil or sword.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for FENCE *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for FENCE

Etymology of FENCE

The word "fence" has an interesting and complex etymology. It originated from the Old French word "defens" or "fens", which meant "defense" or "defensive wall". This Old French word can be traced back further to the Latin word "fensus", which also meant "defense" or "abutting wall".

Over time, the meaning of "fence" evolved to refer specifically to a barrier or enclosure made of wooden or metal posts and rails, designed to mark a boundary or protect an area. This sense of the word emerged during the 14th century, and the spelling "fence" became established during the 15th century.

Furthermore, the verb form of "fence", meaning to enclose or protect with a fence, is related to the noun form.

Idioms with the word FENCE

  • on the fence The idiom "on the fence" means to be undecided or uncertain about a decision, opinion, or course of action. It refers to being in a state of indecisiveness or sitting on the boundary between two options without fully committing to either one.
  • fence sth in The idiom "fence something in" means to enclose or surround something, typically with a physical barrier like a fence, in order to keep it contained or protected. It can be used figuratively to describe the act of restricting or confining someone or something within certain limits or boundaries.
  • fence sm in The idiom "fence someone in" means to restrict or confine someone, often by imposing limitations or barriers that limit their freedom or growth. It implies a sense of being trapped or enclosed within boundaries that prevent progress or escape.
  • fence sm or sth off (from sth) The idiom "fence something off (from something)" means to physically or metaphorically separate or isolate something from something else, typically for the purpose of protection or exclusion. It often involves literal or figurative fencing or barriers.
  • fence with (someone) The idiom "fence with (someone)" refers to engaging in a verbal or intellectual exchange or argument with another person, typically in a challenging or playful manner. It's akin to two individuals metaphorically sparring with words, each trying to outwit or outmaneuver the other in the conversation.
  • fence in The idiom "fence in" means to restrict or confine someone or something within limits, boundaries, or constraints. It can also refer to the act of enclosing or surrounding an area with a physical barrier, like a fence.
  • fence with The idiom "fence with" typically refers to engaging in a debate, argument, or discussion in a cautious or noncommittal manner. It signifies the act of avoiding taking a firm stance or making a decisive decision, often while being evasive or indecisive during the conversation. It suggests the lack of commitment or the ability to remain neutral in a conversation without expressing a strong opinion.
  • over the fence The idiom "over the fence" is an expression used to describe something that is done or accomplished easily and without much effort. It suggests that a task or activity was completed with great success and efficiency, as if effortlessly hitting a home run in baseball and effortlessly clearing the fence.
  • come down on one side of the fence or the other The idiom "come down on one side of the fence or the other" means to make a decisive choice or take a clear position on an issue or situation. It implies that one should stop being indecisive or ambiguous and choose a specific side or viewpoint.
  • fence something in The idiom "fence something in" refers to the act of surrounding or enclosing something with a fence or barrier. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate the restriction or confinement of something or someone.
  • fence (someone or an animal) out The idiom "fence (someone or an animal) out" means to construct a physical barrier, such as a fence, in order to prevent someone or an animal from entering a particular area or property. It is used to describe the action of keeping someone or something outside or away from a designated space or location.
  • fence someone in The idiom "fence someone in" means to restrict or confine someone's movements, actions, or choices by creating obstacles or limitations. It implies restricting someone's freedom or making them feel trapped or restricted in a particular situation.
  • fence someone or something off (from something) To "fence someone or something off (from something)" means to physically separate or block someone or something from a specific area or activity, typically by erecting a fence or barrier. This idiomatic phrase is often used to describe actions taken to keep someone or something out or to create a division or boundary between two areas.
  • my, her, the other, the same, etc. side of the fence The idiom "my, her, the other, the same, etc. side of the fence" refers to someone's or something's particular perspective, opinion, or position on a given issue or situation. It suggests that different individuals or groups may have different viewpoints or stances, often opposing each other. The idiom is often used to emphasize that there are multiple sides or perspectives to consider when discussing a topic.
  • straddle the fence The idiom "straddle the fence" means to be indecisive or neutral, unable or unwilling to choose between two options or take a clear stance on a particular issue. It suggests a person who tries to remain balanced and avoid committing to a specific side, often resulting in a lack of action or ineffective decision-making.
  • on the fence, be The phrase "on the fence" is an idiomatic expression that refers to being undecided or uncertain about a particular issue or decision. It implies that someone has not taken a side or made a commitment, and they remain neutral or hesitant.
  • come off the fence The idiom "come off the fence" means to make a decision or take a clear stance on a particular issue or situation. It implies that the person was originally undecided or neutral, but is now choosing a side or expressing an opinion.
  • fence an animal in The idiom "fence an animal in" means to confine or restrict someone or something, often in a narrow or limited space, similar to how animals are enclosed within a fence. It suggests limiting their freedom or preventing them from exploring beyond a designated area.
  • on the other side of the fence The idiom "on the other side of the fence" refers to the perspective or situation of someone who holds a different opinion, belief, or experience from someone else. It implies a contrast or opposition between two opposing viewpoints or positions.
  • sit on the fence The idiom "sit on the fence" means to remain neutral or undecided in a situation by not choosing a side or taking a position on an issue. It refers to someone who avoids making a clear choice or expressing a strong opinion, often to avoid conflict or controversy.
  • the grass is always greener on the other side (of the fence) The idiom "the grass is always greener on the other side (of the fence)" means that people tend to believe others' situations or circumstances are better than their own, often leading to a feeling of dissatisfaction with what they have. It signifies a tendency to idealize what is unknown or different, while undervaluing or underappreciating what is familiar or familiar.
  • fence (sm or an animal) out The idiom "fence (someone or an animal) out" refers to the act of erecting a physical barrier, usually a fence, to prevent someone or an animal from entering a specific area. It implies creating a boundary or enclosure to keep someone or something away or separated. It can also be used figuratively to denote creating a barrier or obstacle to keep out unwanted influences or individuals.
  • *on the fence (about something)
  • make a Virginia fence
  • fence hanger

Similar spelling words for FENCE

Plural form of FENCE is FENCES

Conjugate verb Fence

CONDITIONAL PERFECT

I would have fenced
you would have fenced
he/she/it would have fenced
we would have fenced
they would have fenced
I would have fence
you would have fence
he/she/it would have fence
we would have fence
they would have fence

CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE

I would have been fencing
you would have been fencing
he/she/it would have been fencing
we would have been fencing
they would have been fencing

CONDITIONAL PRESENT

I would fence
you would fence
he/she/it would fence
we would fence
they would fence

CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE

I would be fencing
you would be fencing
he/she/it would be fencing
we would be fencing
they would be fencing

FUTURE

I will fence
you will fence
he/she/it will fence
we will fence
they will fence

FUTURE CONTINUOUS

I will be fencing
you will be fencing
he/she/it will be fencing
we will be fencing
they will be fencing

FUTURE PERFECT

I will have fenced
you will have fenced
he/she/it will have fenced
we will have fenced
they will have fenced

FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I will have been fencing
you will have been fencing
he/she/it will have been fencing
we will have been fencing
they will have been fencing

IMPERATIVE

you fence
we let´s fence

NONFINITE VERB FORMS

to fence

PAST CONTINUOUS

I was fencing
you were fencing
he/she/it was fencing
we were fencing
they were fencing

PAST PARTICIPLE

fenced

PAST PERFECT

I had fenced
you had fenced
he/she/it had fenced
we had fenced
they had fenced

PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I had been fencing
you had been fencing
he/she/it had been fencing
we had been fencing
they had been fencing

PRESENT

I fence
you fence
he/she/it fences
we fence
they fence

PRESENT CONTINUOUS

I am fencing
you are fencing
he/she/it is fencing
we are fencing
they are fencing

PRESENT PARTICIPLE

fencing

PRESENT PERFECT

I have fenced
you have fenced
he/she/it has fenced
we have fenced
they have fenced

PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I have been fencing
you have been fencing
he/she/it has been fencing
we have been fencing
they have been fencing

PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE

he/she/it fence

SIMPLE PAST

I fenced
you fenced
he/she/it fenced
we fenced
they fenced

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