To fend means to protect yourself or keep something away. You do this by trying hard or using skills. It often means stopping an attack or problem.
She fended off the dog with a stick.
He fended off questions from the reporter.
Fend can mean to look after yourself and manage your needs alone. It often talks about earning money and surviving without others helping you.
He fended for himself after school.
They fended off hard times without help.
Fend can describe how someone manages or handles hard problems by themselves. It means they find a way to deal with difficulties.
She fended well during the crisis.
He fended off many troubles alone.
In sailing and driving, fend means to protect the ship or vehicle from hitting or damage. It means carefully guarding it from harm.
He fended the boat from the rocks.
She fended the car from the wall.
Fend can mean to supply or provide for your needs, like food or money, especially when you have little help. It focuses on self-support with care.
She fended for her family during hard times.
He fended with small jobs to live well.
Fend can mean to protect yourself by blocking or pushing away an attacker. It is often used in fighting or physical danger situations.
He fended off the attacker with quick moves.
She fended a punch during the fight.