Dictionary
Words, grammatical forms and meanings linked to the ontology.
fend and prove en · VERB
Pronunciation
Meanings
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(idiomatic) To engage in argument.
The dexterous management of terms, and being able to fend and prove with them, I know has, and does pass in the world for a great part of learning; but it is learning distinct from knowledge; […]
1689 (indicated as 1690), [John Locke], An Essay Concerning Humane Understanding. […], London: […] Eliz[abeth] Holt, for Thomas Basset, […], →OCLC:All Pulpit-fools are enemies to Love, If e'er they think, 't is how to fend and prove.
1818, John Dunton, The Life and Errors of John Dunton, Citizen of London:
Forms