Definition

1. Noun:

   • A discussion or conference, especially between enemies or opposing sides to discuss terms, a truce, or other matters during a conflict: A "parley" is a formal meeting for negotiation, often held under a temporary ceasefire.

2. Verb:

   • To hold a discussion or conference, especially between enemies: To "parley" means to discuss terms, especially in a situation of dispute or conflict.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The two generals agreed to a parley to discuss the terms of surrender.
  • A brief parley was held under a flag of truce.

• Verb:

  • The rebels have agreed to parley with the government.
  • The captain parleyed with the enemy commander to secure the release of the prisoners.

Advanced Usage

• "To sound a parley": (Historical/Military) To give a signal, such as a trumpet call, to request a conference with the enemy.

  • The besieged garrison sounded a parley, hoping to negotiate a peaceful exit.

• "To hold a parley with": To engage in negotiations with someone.

  • The diplomat was sent to hold a parley with the tribal leaders.

• "To enter into a parley": To begin negotiations.

  • Both sides, weary of fighting, were finally willing to enter into a parley.

Variants and Related Words

• Parleyer (n): A person who parleys; a negotiator.
  • He was a skilled parleyer, often able to avert bloodshed.

Synonyms

• Negotiation: Formal discussion to reach an agreement.
• Conference: A meeting for consultation or discussion.
• Talk(s): Informal discussions, especially to resolve a dispute.
• Deliberation: Long and careful consideration or discussion.

Related Phrases

• Flag of truce: A white flag used to signal a desire to parley.
  • They approached under a flag of truce to request a parley.

Idioms

• "Parley-vous français?": (Humorous/Archaic) A phrase, not directly related to the word's core meaning, playing on the word "parley" to mean "Do you speak French?" It reflects an older, broader use of "parley" meaning simply "to speak."
  • He jokingly asked, "Parley-vous français?" when we arrived in Paris.

Noun

1. a negotiation between enemies

Verb

1. discuss, as between enemies