1. A fortification or wall built behind a trench or defensive position to protect against attack from the rear.
Usage: military; also spelled parodos
2. In ancient Greek theater, the entrance to the stage used by the chorus; also, the first choral song or ode performed upon entering.
Usage: theater history; classical

Examples

• The soldiers constructed a parados behind the main trench to shield themselves from flanking fire.
• Military engineers designed the parados to provide additional defensive depth.
• In Greek drama, the parados marked the chorus's first appearance on stage.
• The parados in Sophocles' plays often introduced the central conflict of the tragedy.
• The chorus sang the parados as they entered the orchestra in the ancient amphitheater.