par·ley / ˈpärlē/ • n. (pl. -leys) a conference between opposing sides in a dispute, esp. a discussion of terms for an armistice.• v. (-leys, -leyed) [intr.] hold a conference with the opposing side to discuss terms: they disagreed over whether to parley with the enemy.

Parley

PARLEY. As early as the sixteenth century, this term was used to mean an informal conference between military opponents to treat or discuss terms. A parley usually was requested to discuss surrender, but it also was called to arrange a truce to care for wounded men lying between the lines. It often was a means of gaining time. A parley with the Indians was known in America as a powow.

SEE ALSO Chamade.

                          revised by Mark M. Boatner

parley speech, talk; (conference for) discussion of terms. XVI. perh. — OF. parlee, sb. use of fem. pp. of parler speak (see prec.).
Hence parley vb. XVI. So parleyvoo (joc.) sb. French talk XVIII; Frenchman XIX; vb. talk French XVIII. — F. parlez-vous (français)? do you speak (French)?