Translation guide
In Japanese, 'fender' is expressed with different words depending on whether you mean a car part, a boat cushion, a fireplace guard, or a bicycle mudguard. The most common term is for the car fender.
The panel over a car's wheel
The most common and direct loanword for a car fender. Used in everyday conversation and technical contexts.
フェンダーがへこんだ。
The fender got dented.
Literally 'mud guard'. Can refer to a car fender, but more commonly used for bicycle/motorcycle mudguards. In car contexts, it's understood but less common than フェンダー.
泥除けを交換する必要がある。
The fender needs to be replaced.
A cushion hung from a boat to prevent damage when docking
Technical term for a boat fender. Used in marine contexts.
防舷材を船の側面に取り付けた。
We attached fenders to the side of the boat.
Also used for boat fenders, especially in casual or less technical contexts. The same loanword as for cars.
フェンダーを下ろして。
Lower the fenders.
A low metal frame in front of a fireplace to keep coals from rolling out
Specifically a fireplace fender or fire grate. Used in traditional or architectural contexts.
炉格子の前で暖を取った。
We warmed ourselves in front of the fender.
Sometimes used for fireplace fenders in modern or imported contexts, but 炉格子 is more precise.
アンティークのフェンダーを買った。
I bought an antique fender.
A curved cover over a wheel to block mud and water
The standard term for a bicycle or motorcycle mudguard. Often used in compound form like 前泥除け (front fender).
自転車の泥除けが外れた。
The bicycle fender came off.
Also used for bicycle/motorcycle fenders, especially in casual speech or when referring to aftermarket parts.
新しいフェンダーを付けた。
I put on a new fender.