fencing

USFEN-sing/ˈfɛnsɪŋ/

4 meanings of fencing

1
noununcountable
Material used to build fences, or fences that act as a barrier around an area.
Like a wall made of wood or wire that keeps things in or out.
We bought new fencing to keep the dogs in the yard.
The farmer repaired the fencing along the road.
Similarrailing, paling
2
noununcountable
The sport of fighting with thin swords, where two people try to touch each other with the point to score.
Like a sword fight in old movies, but played as a safe game with rules and points.
She takes fencing lessons every weekend at the sports center.
Fencing teaches balance, speed, and quick thinking.
Note
3
noununcountable
The crime of buying stolen things and selling them again for money.
Like a person in the middle who takes things other people stole and sells them on.
He made money from fencing, buying and selling stolen bikes.
The police charged her with fencing after finding stolen goods in her store.
4
verb
Present participle of fence. Use this -ing form for an action that is happening now.
They are fencing the yard to keep the dog safe.
He is fencing with a partner at the club tonight.
Note

fencing is a form of fence

fence, verb: To surround an area with a barrier in order to enclose or separate it. Full entry

Forms: fencefences he/she/itfencing -ing formfenced past tense, past participle
Spelling: fence → fencing: drop the e, add -ing

Practice

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Origins

Meaning 4

From the word "fence" plus the ending "-ing".

Meanings 1–3

From Middle English "fensing", made from "fence" plus "-ing".