forfend Meaning & Definition
What Does Forfend Mean?
Forfend is used as a verb meaning forbid. It is also used to mean to ward off.
Forfend at a Glance
| Part of speech | verb |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /fȯr-ˈfend/ |
| Syllables | 2 |
| Synonyms | bulwark, cover and defend |
| Antonyms | assail, assault and attack |
| Verb forms | forfends, forfending, forfended |
Forfend Definition (Verb)
- forbid
- to ward off : prevent
- protect, preserve
Synonyms of Forfend
Forfend synonyms and antonyms →Antonyms of Forfend
Forfend in a Sentence
a place of refuge where the settlers could forfend themselves from attack
Word Forms & Grammar
for·fend·ed
for·fend·ing
for·fends
forfend
forfended
forfending
forfends
forefend
forefended
forefending
forefends
forfend (third-person singular simple present forfends, present participle forfending, simple past and past participle forfended)
Origin of Forfend
From Middle English forfenden (“to ward off, protect, prohibit”), equivalent to for- + fend.
First Known Use
14th century
Forfend Pronunciation
Forfend is pronounced /fȯr-ˈfend/ and has 2 syllables, with the main stress on the second syllable (fend).
Frequently Asked Questions About Forfend
What part of speech is forfend?
Forfend is a verb.
What is another word for forfend?
You can replace forfend with words such as bulwark, cover and defend. See the full list of forfend synonyms and antonyms.
What is the opposite of forfend?
Words opposite in meaning to forfend are assail, assault, attack and bombard.
What is the past tense of forfend?
The past tense of forfend is forfended. The present participle is forfending.