In trench warfare parados referred to a bank of earth or similar material behind the rear of the trench, opposite the parapet, affording protection from explosions and fragments when shells or bombs overshot the trench.
Generally a screen or embankment to protect the rear of a position from enemy attack, from bomb splinters from behind, from enemy fire from a commanding height, or fire from flanking positions. In common English usage since World War II, the term "parados", particularly in trench warfare, has largely been discarded in favour of "rear parapet", which, etymologically speaking, is a contradiction in terms. In some contexts the term "rear traverse" is preferred, but no usage is exclusive.
In fortifications that were enfiladed by enemy in positions commanding the fort, an internal parados could defilade the enemy, serving as physical protection and blindage. Usages of the term have varied inconsistently according to times and sources. Some sources use parados as a synonym for a traverse; some other sources represent parados as a special class of traverse and not necessarily at the back of any particular position.
To take in part of a sail in order to adapt the size of the sail to the force of the wind.
To pull or yank strongly, especially in relation to horse riding.
To move the floats of a paddle wheel toward its center so that they will not dip so deeply.
To manipulate the lining of a person's pocket in order to steal the contents unnoticed.
Scabby; scurvy.
A chain or range of rocks, sand, or coral lying at or near the surface of the water.
A reef knot.
The itch; any eruptive skin disorder.
A large vein of auriferous quartz; hence, any body of rock yielding valuable ore.
A portion of a sail rolled and tied down to lessen the area exposed in a high wind.
Dandruff.