mid-15c., "defending, act of protecting or keeping (something) in proper condition" (short for defencing); 1580s in the sense "art of using a sword or foil in attack and defense" (also fence-play); verbal noun from fence (v.). Meaning "putting up of fences" is from 1620s; that of "an enclosure" is from 1580s; meaning "receiving stolen goods" is from 1851 (see fence (n.)); meaning "materials for an enclosure" is from 1856.
Despite the re-enactment in 1285 of the Assize of Arms of 1181, fencing was regarded as unlawful in England. The keeping of fencing schools was forbidden in the City of London, "as fools who delight in mischief do learn to fence with buckler, and thereby are encouraged in their follies."
双语例句
1. The guards were removing a section of fencing to let it through.
警卫在拆除一段围栏好让它通过。
来自柯林斯例句
2. The league became the governing body for amateur fencing in the U.S.
该联合会成了美国业余击剑运动的管理机构。
来自柯林斯例句
3. The factory is surrounded by electric fencing.
工厂有电网围着。
来自《权威词典》
4. I did a bit of fencing while I was at college.
我在大学时偶尔玩玩击剑.
来自《简明英汉词典》
5. The governor was an expert at fencing with reporters.
