1. a metal or plastic guard covering the wheel of a vehicle to protect against mud and debris
2. a protective device, typically made of rubber or rope, hung over the side of a boat to prevent damage when docking or colliding with another vessel
Usage: nautical
3. a low metal guard or frame in front of a fireplace to prevent burning embers from falling onto the floor

Examples

• The car's fender was dented in the parking lot accident.
• She hung fenders over the side of the sailboat before pulling into the marina.
• The brass fender around the fireplace kept the children safe from hot coals.
• A rusty fender on an old truck can be a sign of poor maintenance.
• The boat's fenders absorbed the impact as we docked at the pier.