1. to defend oneself or ward off an attack or unwanted thing
Usage: usually used with 'off'
2. to provide for oneself or manage independently
Usage: usually used with 'for'

Examples

• She fends off unwanted attention with confidence.
• He fends for himself since moving to the city.
• The goalkeeper fends away the incoming shots.
• Young animals must learn to fend for food.
• She fends off criticism by focusing on her work.
• They fend together as a family unit.