hedge

  • noun 1 a fence or boundary formed by closely growing bushes or shrubs. 2 a contract entered into or asset held as a protection against possible financial loss. 3 a word or phrase used to allow for additional possibilities or to avoid over-precise commitment, for example etc.

  • verb 1 surround with a hedge. 2 limit or qualify by conditions or exceptions. 3 avoid making a definite statement or commitment. 3 protect (an investor or investment) against loss by making compensating contracts or transactions.

  — PHRASES hedge one’s bets avoid committing oneself when faced with a difficult choice.

  — DERIVATIVES hedger noun.

  — ORIGIN Old English.

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