Definitions of hedge:

• noun:   a fence formed by a row of closely planted shrubs or bushes
• noun:   an intentionally noncommittal or ambiguous statement
• noun:   any technique designed to reduce or eliminate financial risk; for example, taking two positions that will offset each other if prices change
• verb:   minimize loss or risk

  Example: "Diversify your financial portfolio to hedge price risks"

• verb:   avoid or try to avoid fulfilling, answering, or performing (duties, questions, or issues)
• verb:   enclose or bound in with or as it with a hedge or hedges

  Example: "Hedge the property"

• verb:   hinder or restrict with or as if with a hedge

  Example: "The animals were hedged in"

• name:  A surname (rare: 1 in 50000 families; popularity rank in the U.S.: #6916)