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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.

She has held the seat for about three decades, repeatedly fending off Democratic challengers, and ran unopposed in her primary.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

The carbon-neutral sustainable fuels introduced this year would be retained, fending off any accusations about increased emissions from engines that would require substantially more fuel.

From BBC • May 14, 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

“I’m kind of stuck,” said Miguel, fending off a fiery dragon with his virtual sword swishes.

From "Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics" by Chris Grabenstein