hedge meaning and definition

HEDGE noun

Definition of hedge (noun)

1. a fence formed by a row of closely planted shrubs or bushes
   • synonyms: hedgerow
2. any technique designed to reduce or eliminate financial risk; for example, taking two positions that will offset each other if prices change
   • synonyms: hedging
3. an intentionally noncommittal or ambiguous statement
   • "when you say `maybe' you are just hedging"
   • synonyms: hedging

HEDGE verb

Definition of hedge (verb)

1. avoid or try to avoid fulfilling, answering, or performing (duties, questions, or issues)
   • "He dodged the issue"; "she skirted the problem"; "They tend to evade their responsibilities"; "he evaded the questions skillfully"
   • synonyms: circumvent, dodge, duck, elude, evade, fudge, parry, put off, sidestep, skirt
2. hinder or restrict with or as if with a hedge
   • "The animals were hedged in"
3. enclose or bound in with or as it with a hedge or hedges
   • "hedge the property"
   • synonyms: hedge in
4. minimize loss or risk
   • "diversify your financial portfolio to hedge price risks"; "hedge your bets"