Definition of "parch" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To burn the surface of, to scorch.

   • The sun today could parch cement.

2. (transitive) To roast, as dry grain.

3. (transitive) To dry to extremity; to shrivel with heat.

   • The patient’s mouth is parched from fever.

4. (transitive, colloquial) To make very thirsty.

   • We're parched, hon. Could you send up an ale from the cooler?

5. (transitive, archaic) To boil something slowly (Still used in Lancashire in parched peas, a type of mushy peas).

6. (intransitive) To become superficially burnt; to become sunburned.

   • The locals watched, amused, as the tourists parched in the sun, having neglected to apply sunscreen or bring water.

noun

1. The condition of being parched.