1. Metal or plastic guards attached to the sides of a vehicle to protect the body from mud, debris, and minor collisions.
Usage: Plural of fender; commonly used in automotive contexts.
2. Protective barriers or frames placed around a fireplace or stove to prevent sparks and embers from escaping.
Usage: Common in household safety contexts.
3. Protective devices hung over the side of a boat or ship to prevent damage when docking or coming alongside another vessel.
Usage: Nautical term; also called bumpers in maritime contexts.

Examples

• The car's fenders were dented after the minor accident.
• She installed new fenders on her truck to protect the paint.
• The fireplace fenders kept the children safe from the hot coals.
• The boat's fenders absorbed the impact as we pulled up to the dock.
• Rust was forming on the old fenders of the vintage car.
• The captain ordered the crew to deploy the fenders before entering the narrow harbor.