hedge

//hɛdʒ//
B2Frequency Level 9Neutral
Visual representation of hedge

Noun

hedgeSingular
hedgesPlural
1

A row of bushes or small trees planted close together, typically forming a boundary or barrier.

We planted a hedge along the edge of our garden.

2

A means of protection or defense against financial loss or other adverse circumstances.

Gold is often used as a hedge against inflation.

Verb

hedgeInfinitive
hedgePresent tense
hedgedPast tense
hedgedPast participle
hedgingPresent participle
hedgesThird-person singular
1

To surround or bound with a hedge.

They hedged the garden with tall bushes.

2

To limit or qualify a statement or commitment to avoid risk or direct confrontation.

The politician hedged when asked about the new policy.

3

To protect oneself against loss on a bet or investment by making balancing transactions.

Smart investors hedge their portfolios by diversifying across different asset classes.

Synonym

Antonym