Meaning
To avoid, deflect, or ward off (an attack, a blow, an argument, etc.).
Etymology
Origin: Middle English
From earlier parree, from Middle English *parree, *paree, from Old French paree (“preparation, ceremony, parade”), from Medieval Latin parāta (“preparation, parade”), from parāre (“to ward off, guard, defend, prepare, get ready”). More at pare. The English verb is taken from the noun. Doublet of parade. Alternative etymology derives the verb parry from French parez, the imperative form of parer (“to fend off”), ultimately from the Medieval Latin parāre. See above.
Synonyms & Antonyms
NYT Puzzle Appearances
Accepted in 6 recorded puzzles: