fender
n. countablen. a soft object hung over the side of a boat to protect it from hitting a dock or another boat. It acts like a cushion to prevent scratches and damage.
n. a cushioning device, such as a bundle of rope or a plastic air-filled bag, suspended over the side of a vessel to absorb impact. Used to prevent damage during mooring or when lying alongside another craft.
The crew hung a fender over the side before docking.
As the yacht approached the concrete pier, the captain shouted for the deckhand to lower a large fender to protect the hull.
In heavy swells, the constant friction between the hull and the quay can puncture a low-quality fender, leading to significant structural abrasional damage if not monitored closely.
From fend + -er.
Commonly used in nautical contexts; distinct from the automotive sense referring to a vehicle's mudguard.