Phrase guide

fence the tables

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To make a solemn address to those who present themselves to commune at the Lord's Supper, on the feelings appropriate to the service, in order to hinder, so far as possible, those who are unworthy from approaching the table.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: Scotland, historical, idiomatic

Topics: Christianity

Examples

  • January 19 1840, Robert Murray M'Cheyne, Memoirs Felt great help in fencing the tables

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.