Definition of: parole

(pə·rōl′) noun
1. A pledge of honor by a prisoner of war that he will not seek to escape or will not serve against his captors until exchanged; also, the condition of being under parole.
2. The release of a prisoner from jail prior to the expiration of his term on his own recognizance.
3. The watchword used only by officers of the guard and of the day: distinguished from countersign.
4. Law Parol.
5. Word of honor.
—v.t. ·roled, ·rol·ing To release (a prisoner) on parole. [<F parole (d'honneur) word (of honor) <OF <L parabola. Doublet Of PALAVER, PARABLE, PARABOLA.]