parl

Parl is a term with multiple, distinct uses in language and reference. In Scots dialect, parl is a verb meaning to speak or talk, often encountered in historical or regional writing. It can appear in phrases such as parl wi’ someone, reflecting a sense of conversation or discussion. The word traces its origins to the same root as the English parler/parley, ultimately from Old French parler meaning “to speak.” In contemporary standard English, parl is uncommon outside dialect or literary contexts.

In formal and bibliographic writing, Parl. (or Parl) is a conventional abbreviation for Parliament. The exact form and capitalization vary by country and style guide, but the intent is to save space and to signal material related to a legislative body. Because usage differs across jurisdictions, readers should consult the relevant style guide when encountering Parl. in official documents, citations, or academic works.

Parl can also appear as part of names, titles, or organizational shorthand in various contexts, but such uses are not standardized and depend on the specific publication or institution. In all cases, the intended meaning of parl is usually determined by context, so if a text uses the term without clear indication, readers should look for surrounding clues or consult a dictionary or style reference. Overall, parl’s primary relevance lies in its dialect sense as a verb meaning to speak and in its role as a commonly understood abbreviation for Parliament in formal writing.