fence-sitter
noun
a person who remains neutral or undecided in a controversy.
fence-sitting
-
a word derived from
fence-sitter.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Some fans are incensed at what they call "fence-sitting".
From BBC ● Jun. 6, 2026
Thirty-five countries, including China, India, South Africa and Cuba, abstained, but a number of fence-sitting countries, including Saudi Arabia and Brazil, voted yes this time.
From Washington Times ● Oct. 12, 2022
Ali Shihabi, who has ties to the royal court, says the kingdom’s new tone signals to “any fence-sitting clerics” that moderation is the only path to take going forward.
From Seattle Times ● Sep. 10, 2021
Her lack of judicial experience was the stated reason for one fence-sitting Republican, Sen. Scott Brown of Massachusetts, to announce his opposition to her confirmation Thursday, just hours before the vote.
From Salon ● Aug. 5, 2010
This is a logical position; fence-sitting insurgents aren't likely to jump over to our side if it looks like the other side is winning.
From Slate ● Jun. 15, 2010
