Par"a*chute (?), n. [F., fr. paper to ward off, guard + chute a fall. See Parry, and Chute, Chance.]
1. A contrivance somewhat in the form of an umbrella, by means of which a descent may be made from a balloon, or any eminence.
2. Zool. A web or fold of skin which extends between the legs of certain mammals, as the flying squirrels, colugo, and phalangister.
© Webster 1913. |