Definition of "parole" in Englisch

noun

1. (with on) Originally, one's oath or word of honour, given as a condition of release from custody; now specifically, describing the release of a former prisoner under certain conditions, especially the promise of good behaviour.

   • He will be on parole for nearly two more years.
   • He was released on parole.

2. Conditional release of a prisoner (now especially before the end of a custodial sentence), or the term or state of such release; the system governing such releases.

3. (now historical) A word of honor, especially given by a prisoner of war, to not engage in combat if released.

4. (now rare) A watchword or code phrase; (military) a password given only to officers, distinguished from the countersign, which is given to all guards.

5. (linguistics) Language in use, as opposed to language as a system.

6. (US, immigration law) The permission for a foreigner who does not meet the technical requirements for a visa to be allowed to enter the U.S. on humanitarian grounds.

7. (law) Alternative form of parol.

verb

1. (transitive, law) To release (a prisoner) on the understanding that s/he checks in regularly and obeys the law.

2. (intransitive) To be released on parole.