Fender \Fen"der\, n. [From Fend, v. t. & i., cf. Defender.]

One who or that which defends or protects by warding off harm; as:
   (a) A screen to prevent coals or sparks of an open fire from escaping to the floor.
   (b) Anything serving as a cushion to lessen the shock when a vessel comes in contact with another vessel or a wharf.
   (c) A screen to protect a carriage from mud thrown off the wheels: also, a splashboard.
   (d) Anything set up to protect an exposed angle, as of a house, from damage by carriage wheels.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)