What does parleying mean?
Parleying is the act of holding talks with another person or group, usually to negotiate terms, exchange proposals, or resolve a dispute. The expression is especially associated with diplomacy, conflict, and political negotiation, but it can describe any substantial discussion aimed at agreement. “The two sides continued parleying” conveys persistence and a formal or purposeful tone, while “parleying with the enemy” adds a historical or adversarial context. In older literature, a parley could be a guarded conference between opposing forces, sometimes conducted under a truce. Although the word is related to speaking and conversation generally, its modern usage carries the stronger implication of negotiation. It is therefore especially useful when describing attempts to resolve conflict, organize an agreement, or bring opposing parties together.
To engage in discussion or negotiation, especially with an opponent or another party seeking agreement.
"The envoys continued parleying with local leaders throughout the afternoon."
Often used where the parties are opposed, separated by a dispute, or engaged in formal negotiation.
The act or process of holding such discussions or negotiations.
"After prolonged parleying, the two delegations reached a peace agreement."
This nominal use is less common than the participial use and normally describes a formal or sustained exchange.
In older English, a parley was a formal conference, often one arranged between enemies under a temporary truce.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does parleying come from?
The word comes ultimately from Latin parlare, meaning “to speak,” through Old French parler. English borrowed it in the Middle English period as parle, with the later form parley developing in the 16th century. The same root produced words including parlance, parliament, and parlour, all of which retain some connection with speech or discussion.
Related word forms
How parleying is actually used
The expression is neutral to formal and is especially common in political, diplomatic, legal, and historical contexts. It normally implies a purposeful exchange intended to reach agreement rather than an informal conversation.
Easily confused with parleying
Parleying means discussing or negotiating with someone, whereas parlaying means spreading or passing on a story, secret, or piece of news.