Definition

Verb: 1. To defend against or repel something unwanted: To actively keep something, such as an attack, a question, or an unwanted advance, from reaching or affecting you. 2. To ward off or avert: To prevent something undesirable from happening or succeeding.

Usage

The verb "fend off" is transitive and requires a direct object. It describes an active, often defensive, effort to stop something. It is commonly used in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

Examples

• The goalkeeper managed to fend off every shot on goal. (To repel a physical attack)
• She used an umbrella to fend off the aggressive seagulls. (To defend against an animal attack)
• The company issued a statement to fend off rumors of a takeover. (To repel negative information or speculation)
• He skillfully fended off the reporters' difficult questions. (To deflect or avoid verbal challenges)

Advanced Usage

• "Fend off" can imply a sustained or repeated effort against persistent pressure.
  • For years, the small nation fended off invasions from its more powerful neighbors.

Variants and Related Words

• Fend (for oneself): To look after and provide for oneself without help from others.
  • When his parents were away, the boy had to fend for himself.

Synonyms

• Repel: To drive or force back.
• Ward off: To prevent someone or something from harming or affecting you.
• Parry: To ward off a weapon or blow, or to skillfully avoid a question.
• Deflect: To cause something to change direction, or to avoid dealing with something directly.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Fight off: To resist something by fighting against it. This is very close in meaning but often implies a more aggressive or intense struggle.
  • She tried to fight off the infection with antibiotics.

Related Idioms

• Hold at bay: To prevent someone or something dangerous from coming too close or attacking.
  • The firefighters held the flames at bay until reinforcements arrived.

Verb

1. prevent the occurrence of; prevent from happening
   • Let's avoid a confrontation
   • head off a confrontation
   • avert a strike