Par″ry (păr″ry̆), v. t. [imp. & p. p.Parried (–rĭd); p. pr. & vb. n.Parrying.] [F. paré, p. p. of parer. See Pare, v. t.]
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.
Vice parries wide
The undreaded volley with a sword of straw. Cowper.
2. To avoid; to shift or put off; to evade.
The French government has parried the payment of our claims. E. Everett.