fend and prove

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fend and prove

1. (idiomatic) To engage in argument.
   • 1690, John Locke, An Essay Concerning Human Understanding

     The dexterous management of terms, and being able to fend and prove with them, I know has, and does pass in the world for a great part of learning; but it is learning distinct from knowledge; […]

   • 1818, John Dunton, The Life and Errors of John Dunton, Citizen of London

     All Pulpit-fools are enemies to Love, If e'er they think, 't is how to fend and prove.