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Fended Meaning: Definition and Examples

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fended

[fΙ›ndΙͺd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

defensive action

Fended is the simple past form of the verb 'fend', which means to ward off or defend against something. It implies an action taken to protect oneself from an attack or danger. Fended can suggest a physical defense, emotional boundary, or a strategy to deal with challenges or adversities. The word often conveys a sense of resilience or skill in managing difficult situations.

Synonyms

defended, protected, resisted, warded off.

Examples of usage

  • She fended off the harsh criticisms during the meeting.
  • He fended for himself after his parents left.
  • The athlete fended off his opponents with ease.

Interesting Facts

Historical Usage

  • In medieval times, knights would 'fend' off attackers during battles, showcasing bravery.
  • Literature from old English texts often mentions characters fending for themselves in challenging situations, highlighting survival.

Psychology

  • Fending can be seen as a coping mechanism, where one mentally or physically pushes away stressors.
  • Research indicates that people who learn to fend off negative thoughts tend to have better mental health outcomes.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'fend for yourself' is commonly used in movies, showing characters who must survive independently.
  • In many superhero comics, characters frequently fend off villains to protect their city, emphasizing selfless bravery.

Sports

  • In sports like boxing and fencing, athletes must fend off opponents' attacks skillfully to win.
  • The concept of fending is crucial in martial arts, where defending against an opponent is as important as attacking.

Origin of 'fended'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'fendan', which means to defend or ward off.
  • It has roots in the Latin 'fendere', meaning to strike or hit, emphasizing its protective meaning.

The word 'fend' has its roots in Old English 'fendan', which meant 'to provide for' or 'to defend'. It evolved through Middle English where it took on the meaning of warding off or resisting an attack. Over time, 'fend' became associated with self-defense and personal agency. The transformation of its usage reflects the human instinct to protect oneself and one's interests. As the language developed through the centuries, the past tense form 'fended' became common in both spoken and written English, illustrating the dynamic capability of the language to communicate personal action and the act of defense.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,989 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.