parry

/ˈpɛri/

/ˈpɛri/

Other forms: parried; parrying; parries

Sword fighters thrust and parry. To thrust is to try to stab, and to parry is to avoid getting stabbed by blocking a thrust. Though it comes from fencing, parry is also handy in dodgeball and awkward conversations

The word parry means to block or evade a movement, like in fencing, but it can also refer to an evasion that is verbal rather than physical. If someone asks you who you have a crush on, but you don’t want to answer, parry the question — change the subject or ask a question in return. When used in this way parry retains its sense of defending yourself through evasion.

Definitions of parry

1. verb

   impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball)
   synonyms: block, deflect

   type of:

   fence

   fight with sword-like foils
2. verb

   avoid or try to avoid fulfilling, answering, or performing (duties, questions, or issues)
   synonyms: circumvent, dodge, duck, elude, evade, fudge, hedge, put off, sidestep, skirt

   types:

   beg, beg the question

   dodge, avoid answering, or take for granted

   quibble

   evade the truth of a point or question by raising irrelevant objections

   type of:

   avoid

   stay clear from; keep away from; keep out of the way of someone or something
3. noun

   (fencing) blocking a lunge or deflecting it with a circular motion of the sword
   type of:

   block, blocking

   the act of obstructing or deflecting someone's movements
4. noun

   a return punch (especially by a boxer)
   synonyms: counter, counterpunch

   type of:

   biff, clout, lick, poke, punch, slug

   (boxing) a blow with the fist