parry (
http://definr.com/parry)
n : a return punch [syn:
counterpunch,
counter]
v 1: impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball), as in sports
or fights; "block an attack" [syn:
block,
deflect]
2: avoid or try to avoid, as of duties, questions and issues;
"He dodged the issue" [syn:
hedge,
fudge,
evade, {put
off},
circumvent,
elude,
skirt,
dodge,
duck,
sidestep]