rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryparlanceGroup-specific language
noun

parlance

PAR-luns/ˈpɑːrləns/

A style of speech or terminology used by a particular group.

In medical parlance, stat conveys urgency when requesting the supply tray.

Two modern clinicians communicate in a hospital-work context: one urgently asks a colleague for a supply tray with a single small speech bubble reading only 'stat'.
Etymology
parlOld Frenchto speak
+anceOld Frenchaction or state

From the act of speaking, parlance developed the meaning “manner of expression.” It thus names not merely speech, but the particular language customary within a group or setting.

In context

Columbia GSAPP109:27
those UN figures do not include the most recent natural disasters or acts of God in insurance parlance
Fitch Colloquium Ex-Situ: On Moving Monuments – Introduction and Panel #1 of 3: Urban Moves

More examples

  • The expression entered everyday parlance.
  • She explained the phrase in the parlance of sailors.
  • Technical parlance made the instructions difficult to follow.

Forms

parlance

Similar words

jargon
Jargon is specialized vocabulary, sometimes difficult for outsiders; parlance neutrally describes a group’s way of speaking.
idiom
Idiom can mean a characteristic expression or style; parlance concerns customary terminology or speech.