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Parry (părˈry̆), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Parried (părˈrĕd); p. pr. & vb. n. Parrying.] [F. paré, p. p. of parer. See Pare, v. t.]
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1. To ward off; to stop, or to turn aside; as, “to parry a thrust, a blow, or anything that means or threatens harm”. Locke.
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Vice parries wide
The undreaded volley with a sword of straw. Cowper.
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2. To avoid; to shift or put off; to evade.
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The French government has parried the payment of our claims. E. Everett.
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parry, v. i. To ward off, evade, or turn aside something, as a blow, argument, etc. Locke.
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parry, n.; pl. Parries (>). A warding off of a thrust or blow, as in sword and bayonet exercises or in boxing; hence, figuratively, a defensive movement in debate or other intellectual encounter.
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