Parley

Part of speech: noun, verb

Pronunciation: /ˈpɑː(ɹ)li/

Definitions

1. A discussion or conference between opposing sides, especially to negotiate terms of a truce or agreement
2. A formal meeting or dialogue held between adversaries to settle differences or reach an understanding
3. An exchange of views or negotiations carried out between conflicting parties to resolve disputes or bargain terms

Etymology: Parley began as a word for ordinary talk. Its ancestor is Latin "parabola," meaning "comparison," which came from Greek "parabolē," a compound of "para" ("beside") and "ballein" ("to throw"), so the idea was of throwing one thing alongside another. The Latin word passed into Late Latin as "parabolare," and Old French turned it into "parler," "to talk." English borrowed that French verb in the form "parlai," meaning speech or parley, and the word has been about conversation ever since. The narrowing to talks between enemies came later, when the sense of formal discussion settled on negotiations during wartime. Parley now means a meeting held to discuss terms, typically between opposing forces under a truce. The same Greek root produced "palaver," which came into English from Portuguese and carries a more casual sense of idle chatter. Parley and palaver are doublets, two English words that descend from one source by different routes.