parley
Parley (noun) means a meeting to discuss terms, especially between opposing sides or enemies. Example: “The two warring chiefs agreed to a parley before the battle.”
How to use parley
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA discussion between two opposing sides, often to try to end a conflict.
Not to be confused with "parlay," which is about betting or building on a success.
Word forms
parleyed past tense, parleys plural, parleys singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The two warring chiefs agreed to a _____ before the battle.
Etymology
From Old French parler, "to speak" — a distant relative of "parable" and "palaver."
Rhymes for parley
See all rhymes for parley →Frequently asked questions
What does “parley” mean?
The word “parley” means a meeting to discuss terms, especially between opposing sides or enemies. In plain terms, a discussion between two opposing sides, often to try to end a conflict.
How do you pronounce “parley”?
“Parley” is pronounced PAH-lee (/ˈpɑɹli/ in IPA).
How do you use “parley” in a sentence?
Here is “parley” used in a sentence: “The two warring chiefs agreed to a parley before the battle.”
What part of speech is “parley”?
Depending on how it is used, “parley” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “parley” come from?
The word “parley” comes from Old French. From Old French parler, "to speak" — a distant relative of "parable" and "palaver.".
How many meanings does “parley” have?
“Parley” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a meeting to discuss terms, especially between opposing sides or enemies.