What is the meaning of parry?

noun

• Fencing) blocking a lunge or deflecting it with a circular motion of the sword. (
• A return punch (especially by a boxer.
  • synonyms: counterpunch, counter

verb

• Impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball. )
  • usage: "block an attack"
  • synonyms: block, deflect
• Avoid or try to avoid fulfilling, answering, or performing (duties, questions, or issues. )
  • usage: "He dodged the issue"; "she skirted the problem"; "They tend to evade their responsibilities"; "he evaded the questions skillfully"
  • synonyms: hedge, fudge, evade, put off, circumvent, elude, skirt, dodge, duck, sidestep