Par″a‐chute (?), n. [F., fr. parer to ward off, guard + chute a fall. See Parry, and Chute, Chance.]
1. A contrivance somewhat in the form of an umbrella, by means of which a descent may be made from a balloon, or any eminence.
2. (Zoöl.) A web or fold of skin which extends between the legs of certain mammals, as the flying squirrels, colugo, and phalangister.