Parthian

Part of speech: adjective, noun

Definitions

1. Characterizing a swift and tactical retreat or departure, often used in historical contexts regarding ancient warriors; relating to or denoting a form of archery or combat strategy noted for its effectiveness in evading pursuit; describing remarks or actions delivered with a cleverness that leaves an opponent at a disadvantage or off balance
2. Pertaining to a style eminent for cleverly escaping or withdrawing, as in military tactics from ancient history; indicative of an approach that combines speed with strategic positioning in various confrontations; illustrating communications that leave an opponent with little opportunity for a comeback or reply
3. Associated with a rapid and skillful withdrawal, traditionally linked to warriors famed for such maneuvers; referring to techniques in archery or combat designed to outmaneuver foes; denoting comments or gestures that cleverly undermine an adversary's response capability

Etymology: The Parthians were an ancient people of Iran whose empire rivalled Rome for centuries, and their cavalry had a trick that Roman armies found maddening. Mounted archers would feign retreat, then twist in the saddle and loose arrows at the pursuers, a manoeuvre that could turn a rout into a massacre. The name "Parthian" comes from Parthia, the region they came from, with the suffix "-an" marking origin, so the word simply means "of Parthia" before it ever meant anything about tactics. In English, the word took on its figurative sense from that battlefield image. An "amicable" exit in a debate or a sudden withdrawal that still lands a blow can be called Parthian, because it combines apparent retreat with a final strike. The adjective is used of speeches, remarks and manoeuvres that leave an opponent with no good reply, and it is the same arrow-over-the-shoulder idea that the word preserves.