Showing results for fending off. Search instead for fending+off.

fending 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.

Yet that’s also how Malone feels about the current climate of Hollywood — a once-stable neighborhood fending off malign forces.

From Los Angeles Times • May 8, 2026

Volkswagen, long the largest seller in China, is battling to maintain a Chinese market share while also fending off competition at home.

From Barron's • Apr. 22, 2026

He won his March primary, easily fending off three lesser-known opponents, and will face the winner of the Democratic runoff between state Rep. Vikki Goodwin of Austin and union leader Marcos Vélez.

From Salon • Apr. 11, 2026

McLaren's world champion Lando Norris finished fifth, fending off a challenge in the closing laps from Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who recovered from 20th on the grid to finish sixth.

From BBC • Mar. 8, 2026

"That would have been amusing. I can just see him fending off Ser Vardis with his woodharp."

From "A Game of Thrones" by George R.R. Martin