parlous

American  

[pahr-luhs] / ˈpɑr ləs /

adjective

1. perilous; dangerous.

   parlous times;

   a cold and parlous winter.

2. Obsolete. clever; shrewd.

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adverb

1. Rare. to a large extent; greatly.

parlous British  

/ ˈpɑːləs /

adjective

1. dangerous or difficult

2. cunning

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adverb

1. extremely

Other Word Forms

• parlously adverb
• parlousness noun

Etymology

Origin of parlous

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, variant of perlous, shortening of perilous

Example Sentences

You can make a good argument that this news is bearish for bonds, because it surely raises further questions about parlous finances of the U.S. government.

From MarketWatch

Evaluating the parlous flaccidity of our schools, James Traub thinks we’re in big trouble—but he also finds reason for hope.

From The Wall Street Journal

At a parlous 51-3 England were vulnerable, but Bethell and Brook initially appeared assured only for things to unravel via a duff pull shot and slash to backward point on 18 and 34 respectively.

From BBC

Conviction is also driving investors, particularly wealthy Europeans who see huge stakes in the continent’s parlous security situation.

From The Wall Street Journal

In turn, he wants help to consolidate his power in Syria, secure its borders and rescue a parlous economy with access to Russian energy and investment.

From BBC