the pressed and formed sheet-metal part mounted over the road wheels of an automobile, bicycle, etc., to reduce the splashing of mud, water, and the like.

a device on the front of a locomotive, streetcar, or the like, for clearing the track of obstructions.

a mudguard or splashboard on a horse-drawn vehicle.

Nautical . a piece of timber, bundle of rope, or the like, hung over the side of a vessel to lessen shock or prevent chafing, as between the vessel and a dock or another vessel.

a low metal guard before an open fireplace, to keep back falling coals.

a person or thing that wards something off.

noun

apron , buffer , bumper , cover , curb , cushion , frame , guard , mask , mudguard , protector , screen , shield , splashboard , ward , dashboard , defense , protection