fender

1. Panel of a car which encloses the wheel area, especially the front wheels
2. A shield, usually of plastic or metal, on a bicycle that protects the rider from mud or water
3. Any shaped cushion-like object normally made from polymers, rubber or wood that is placed along the sides of a boat to prevent damage when moored alongside another vessel or jetty, or when using a lock, etc. Modern variations are cylindrical although older wooden version and rubbing strips can still be found; old tyres are used as a cheap substitute
4. A low metal framework in front of a fireplace, intended to catch hot coals, soot, and ash

verb

To use fenders to protect the side of a boat