Parry
WordNet
noun
(1) A return punch (especially by a boxer)
(2) (fencing) blocking a lunge or deflecting it with a circular motion of the sword
verb
(3) Avoid or try to avoid fulfilling, answering, or performing (duties, questions, or issues)
"He dodged the issue"
"She skirted the problem"
"They tend to evade their responsibilities"
"He evaded the questions skillfully"
(4) Impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball)
"Block an attack"
WiktionaryText
Etymology
Probably representing French parez, imperative of parer ‘prepare’.
Noun
- A defensive or deflective action; an act of parrying.
- A simple defensive action designed to deflect an attack, performed with the forte of the blade.