n.; pl. Parleys [ F. parler speech, talk, fr. parler to speak, LL. parabolare, fr. L. parabola a comparison, parable, in LL., a word. See Parable, and cf. Parliament, Parlor. ] Mutual discourse or conversation; discussion; hence, an oral conference with an enemy, as with regard to a truce. [ 1913 Webster ]
We yield on parley, but are stormed in vain. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]
To beat a parley (Mil.), to beat a drum, or sound a trumpet, as a signal for holding a conference with the enemy. [ 1913 Webster ]