parry

To deflect or ward off (a fencing thrust, for example).

To deflect, evade, or avoid.

To deflect or ward off a thrust or blow.

The deflecting or warding off of a thrust or blow, as in fencing.

An evasive answer or action.

A defensive movement in fencing.

A fencing-bout; hence, a brilliant attack and defense of any kind.

To turn aside; ward off: as, to parry a thrust or a blow, or an inquisitive question.

To avoid; evade.

To act on the defensive, as in warding off a thrust or an argument; fence.