Fences Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fences
[ˈfɛnsɪz ]
Definitions
around house
A barrier or railing typically made of wood or metal, used to enclose an area, typically outside such as a garden or yard.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fences |
Used to describe a structure that encloses or separates two areas, commonly used for residential or agricultural purposes.
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| barrier |
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.
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| enclosure |
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.
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Examples of usage
- The dog kept escaping from the garden, so we decided to put up some fences.
- The new house had a white picket fence around the front yard.
restrict movement
To put up a barrier or obstacle to control, block, or restrict movement or access.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fences |
Used when referring to barriers, usually made of wood, metal or wire, that mark boundaries or enclose spaces such as yards or gardens.
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| enclose |
Used for surrounding or closing off an area, often with a wall, fence, or hedge, implying a more secure and complete enclosure.
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| surround |
Refers to all-encompassing encirclement, typically without implying a barrier. It can be physical or figurative.
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| block |
Commonly used to indicate stopping or preventing movement or access; can be physical or figurative, often has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The government decided to fence off the construction site to prevent unauthorized entry.
- The farmer fenced his land to keep the cattle from wandering off.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- Fences have existed since ancient times, originally made of wood, stone, or thorn bushes to protect livestock and crops.
- The word 'fence' comes from the Old French term 'fens,' which means to defend or protect.
- In medieval Europe, fences often marked boundaries of property, illustrating ownership and control.
Architecture
- Different types of fences, like picket, chain-link, and privacy, serve various aesthetic and functional purposes.
- In landscaping, fences not only serve as barriers but also enhance the visual appeal of properties.
- Garden fences can support climbing plants and are often used to create beautiful outdoor spaces.
Cultural Significance
- In literature, fences often symbolize barriers people put up emotionally or socially.
- The famous play 'Fences' by August Wilson addresses racial tensions and family conflicts in 20th-century America, using the fence as a metaphor for divisions.
- In different cultures, fences can signify wealth, status, and an individual's need for privacy.
Environmental Impact
- Fences can impact local wildlife, sometimes restricting animal movement and migration patterns.
- Some ecological studies explore how wildlife-friendly fences can minimize trauma to animals while providing protection to crops.
- Sustainable fencing options, like those using recycled materials or natural materials, are gaining popularity in conservation efforts.
Legal Aspects
- Property boundaries are often clarified with fences, potentially leading to disputes over land rights.
- Many communities have zoning laws that dictate how high or what materials can be used for fences, ensuring consistency in neighborhood aesthetics.
- Homeowners may require permits or inspections before installing a fence, particularly in urban areas.
Origin of 'fences'
The word 'fences' originated from the Middle English 'fens', which means 'a protection, defense, enclosure'. It is related to the Old English 'fenn' and the Old High German 'fenz', both meaning 'mud, dirt, dung'. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to a structure used for enclosing or protecting an area.