WordReference can't find this exact phrase, but click on each word to see its meaning:
WordReference provides online dictionaries, not translation software. Please look up the individual words (you can click on them below) or ask in the forums if you need more help.
fence(fens),USA pronunciationn., v.,fenced, fenc•ing. n.
a barrier enclosing or bordering a field, yard, etc., usually made of posts and wire or wood, used to prevent entrance, to confine, or to mark a boundary.
Informal Termsa person who receives and disposes of stolen goods.
the place of business of such a person.
Sportthe act, practice, art, or sport of fencing.
skill in argument, repartee, etc.
Mechanical Engineering[Mach.]a guard or guide, as for regulating the movements of a tool or work.
Building[Carpentry.]a slotted guide used esp. with a framing square to lay out cuts on rafters and staircase strings.
[Archaic.]a means of defense; a bulwark.
Idiomsmend one's fences, to strengthen or reestablish one's position by conciliation or negotiation:One could tell by his superficially deferential manner that he was trying to mend his fences.
Idiomson the fence, uncommitted; neutral; undecided:The party leaders are still on the fence.
v.t.
to enclose by some barrier, establishing exclusive right to possession:to fence a farm.
to separate by or as by a fence or fences (often fol. by in, off, out, etc.):to fence off a corner of one's yard; to fence out unwholesome influences.
to defend; protect; guard:The president was fenced by bodyguards wherever he went.
to ward off; keep out.
Informal Termsto sell (stolen goods) to a fence.
Nautical, Naval Termsto reinforce (an opening in a sail or the like) by sewing on a grommet or other device.
v.i.
Sportto practice the art or sport of fencing.
to parry arguments; strive to avoid giving direct answers; hedge:The mayor fenced when asked if he would run again.
(of a horse) to leap over a fence.
[Obs.]to raise a defense.
Middle English fens, aphetic for defensdefense 1300–50
a structure that serves to enclose an area such as a garden or field, usually made of posts of timber, concrete, or metal connected by wire, netting, rails, or boards
a dealer in stolen property
an obstacle for a horse to jump in steeplechasing or showjumping
a guard or guide, esp in a circular saw or plane
on the fence ⇒ unable or unwilling to commit oneself
(transitive)to construct a fence on or around (a piece of land, etc)
(tr; followed by in or off)to close (in) or separate (off) with or as if with a fence: he fenced in the livestock
(intransitive)to fight using swords or foils
(intransitive)to evade a question or argument, esp by quibbling over minor points
(intransitive)to engage in skilful or witty debate, repartee, etc
Etymology: 14th Century fens, shortened from defensdefenceˈfenceless
Forum discussions with the word(s) "sit on the fence" in the title: