fend off

VERB

keep at bay

Synonyms

STRONGEST

avert avoid deflect rebuff rebut reject repel repulse resist spurn ward off

WEAK

beat off drive back hold at bay keep at a distance keep at arm's length keep off parry rebuke refuse snub stave off turn aside

Antonyms

STRONGEST

approve attract want welcome

WEAK

let in

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Fertitta was able to fend off a competing offer from billionaire investor Carl Icahn’s firm.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov has championed the use of advanced technology to fend off Russian attacks, including launching the Defense AI Center A1.

From Barron's • May 15, 2026

Reaves’ game-high scoring effort wasn’t enough to fend off the relentless defending champions that had six players score in double figures, including three with 20 or more points.

From Los Angeles Times • May 8, 2026

To fend off the amphibious assault, U.S. troops launched missiles from the truck-based High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or Himars.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

Jerry told Tom to fend off from the bow while he backed out of the dock.

From "Homecoming" by Cynthia Voigt

fend off

Example Sentences

Related Words