Fen"der (?), n. [From Fend, v. t. & i., cf. Defender.] One who or that which defends or protects by warding off harm; as: (a) A screen to prevent coals or sparks of an open fire from escaping to the floor. (b) Anything serving as a cushion to lessen the shock when a vessel comes in contact with another vessel or a wharf. (c) A screen to protect a carriage from mud thrown off the wheels: also, a splashboard. (d) Anything set up to protect an exposed angle, as of a house, from damage by carriage wheels.

• (U.S.) panel of a car which encloses the wheel area, especially the front wheels
  
• (U.S.) a shield, usually of plastic or metal, on a bicycle that protects the rider from mud or water
  
• (nautical) Any shaped cushion-like object normally made from polymers, rubber or wood that is placed along the sides of a boat to prevent damage when moored alongside another vessel or jetty, or in cases such as like using a lock. Modern variations are cylindrical although older wooden version and rubbing strips can still be found; old tyres are used as a cheap substitute
  
• A low metal framework in front of a fireplace, intended to catch hot coals, soot, and ash.