fence.html - See: GRASS IS ALWAYS GREENER ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE FENCE, MEND ONE'S FENCES, ON THE FENCE.

fence.html - {n.} A person unable to pick between two sides; a person who does not want to choose. * /Daddy says he is a fence-sitter because he doesn't know which man he wants for President./

fence.html - {n.} or {adj.} Choosing neither side. * /You have been fence-sitting for too long. It is time you made up your mind./ Contrast: MAKE UP ONE'S MIND, TAKE SIDES.

fence.html - n. & v.
--n.

1 a barrier or railing or other upright structure enclosing an area of ground, esp. to prevent or control access.
2 a large upright obstacle in steeplechasing or showjumping.
3 sl. a receiver of stolen goods.
4 a guard or guide in machinery.

--v.

1 tr. surround with or as with a fence.
2 tr. a (foll. by in, off) enclose or separate with or as with a fence. b (foll. by up) seal with or as with a fence.
3 tr. (foll. by from, against) screen, shield, protect.
4 tr. (foll. by out) exclude with or as with a fence; keep out.
5 tr. (also absol.) sl. deal in (stolen goods).
6 intr. practise the sport of fencing; use a sword.
7 intr. (foll. by with) evade answering (a person or question).
8 intr. (of a horse etc.) leap fences.

sit on the fence remain neutral or undecided in a dispute etc.

fenceless adj. fencer n. [ME f. DEFENCE]

fence.html - See: GRASS IS ALWAYS GREENER ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE FENCE, MEND ONE'S FENCES, ON THE FENCE.

fence.html - {n.} A person unable to pick between two sides; a person who does not want to choose. * /Daddy says he is a fence-sitter because he doesn't know which man he wants for President./