Fences: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a structure that encloses or separates two areas, commonly used for residential or agricultural purposes.

• They built fences around their garden to keep the rabbits out.
• The farmer installed new fences to prevent the livestock from wandering.

Often used in contexts where something is meant to block or limit access or movement. This term is broader and can be physical or metaphorical.

• The road was closed with a barrier due to construction.
• Language can be a significant barrier to communication.

Used to describe a closed-off area that is surrounded by some form of barrier. Often used for containing animals or defining a specific space.

• The zoo has a large enclosure for the lions.
• All supplies were kept in a secured enclosure.

Used when referring to barriers, usually made of wood, metal or wire, that mark boundaries or enclose spaces such as yards or gardens.

• The farmer built fences around his land to keep the animals in
• The backyard has white picket fences

Used for surrounding or closing off an area, often with a wall, fence, or hedge, implying a more secure and complete enclosure.

• The garden was enclosed by tall hedges
• Please enclose the form with your application

Refers to all-encompassing encirclement, typically without implying a barrier. It can be physical or figurative.

• The detective was surrounded by mysteries
• The city is surrounded by mountains

Commonly used to indicate stopping or preventing movement or access; can be physical or figurative, often has a negative connotation.

• The road was blocked by fallen trees
• She blocked him on social media