'parry' originates from Middle French 'parer', specifically the word 'parer', where 'parer' meant 'to ward off' or 'to prepare'.

'parry' changed from Middle French 'parer' (Old French 'parer') into early modern English forms such as 'parren' or 'parry' and eventually became the modern English word 'parry'.

Initially it meant 'to prepare' or more generally 'to make ready', and over time it evolved into the more specific sense 'to ward off or deflect (an attack)', which is its current meaning.