Fence: meaning, definitions and examples

A structure used to divide or protect an area, typically made of wood, metal, or wire, and generally used in residential or agricultural settings.

• They built a fence around their yard to keep the dog in.
• The farmer put up a new fence to protect his crops from animals.

An obstacle that prevents movement or access. It can be physical or metaphorical, often used in the context of control or restriction.

• The road was closed off by a barrier due to construction.
• Language can sometimes be a barrier to communication.

A solid, vertical structure that divides or encloses an area. It is often made of brick, concrete, or stone and used in buildings and fortifications.

• They decided to paint the living room wall a bright color.
• The Great Wall of China is a famous historical structure.

An area that is sealed off with a physical barrier, often used for housing animals or protecting property.

• The zoo's new lion enclosure gives the animals more space to roam.
• They built an enclosure for their chickens to keep them safe from predators.

Use this word when referring to a barrier made of wood, metal, or other materials, typically used to enclose or mark off an area. It implies a physical, often visible structure.

• They built a fence around the garden to keep the rabbits out.
• The wooden fence adds a rustic look to the backyard.

This term is often used when speaking about surrounding something with boundaries or covering it completely, creating a contained area. It can apply to both physical spaces and abstract concepts.

• Please enclose your check in the envelope provided.
• The farm was enclosed by a high stone wall.

Use this word to describe something that encircles or is all around an object or area. It often implies a complete or near-complete encircling.

• Mountains surround the small village, making it feel secluded.
• The police surrounded the building to prevent anyone from escaping.

This word is best used when indicating a division between two entities, whether physically or abstractly. It emphasizes the act of keeping things apart.

• Curtains can be used to separate a room into separate areas.
• Their different interests began to separate them over time.