GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

Found 2 definitions

1.       
   Parley (?), n.; pl. Parleys (#). [F. parler speech, talk, fr. parler to speak, LL. parabolare, fr. L. parabola a comparison, parable, in LL., a word. See Parable, and cf. Parliament, Parlor.] Mutual discourse or conversation; discussion; hence, an oral conference with an enemy, as with regard to a truce.
   
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   We yield on parley, but are stormed in vain. Dryden.
   
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   To beat a parley (Mil.), to beat a drum, or sound a trumpet, as a signal for holding a conference with the enemy.
   
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2.       
   Parley, v. i. [imp. & p. p. Parleyed (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Parleying.] To speak with another; to confer on some point of mutual concern; to discuss orally; hence, specifically, to confer orally with an enemy; to treat with him by words, as on an exchange of prisoners, an armistice, or terms of peace.
   
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   They are at hand,
   
   To parley or to fight; therefore prepare. Shak.
   
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