definition of
parry

[1] #1 parry v. [block, deflect] impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball); "block an attack". wn

[2] #2 parry n. (fencing) blocking a lunge or deflecting it with a circular motion of the sword. wn

[3] #3 parry n. [counterpunch, counter] a return punch (especially by a boxer). wn

[4] #4 parry v. [hedge, fudge, evade, put off, circumvent, elude, skirt, dodge, duck, sidestep] avoid or try to avoid fulfilling, answering, or performing (duties, questions, or issues); "He dodged the issue"; "she skirted the problem"; "They tend to evade their responsibilities"; "he evaded the questions skillfully". wn