The term "fend" is defined as to defend or resist. There are several alternatives that can be used in place of this word, such as guard, shield, protect, ward off, repel, or face up to. "Guard" implies a stance taken to prevent invasion or attack. "Shield" refers to the act of providing protection to something or someone. "Protect" emphasizes the ideal of shielding something against danger or harm. "Ward off" means to keep something at bay by fighting or resisting it. "Repel" emphasizes the concept of keeping something at a distance by force, while "face up to" involves confronting a problem directly.