[par.a.pet] n [It parapetto, fr. parare to shield (fr. L, to prepare) + petto chest, fr. L pectus--more at pare, pectoral] (1590) 1: a wall, rampart, or elevation of earth or stone to protect soldiers: breastwork
2: a low wall or railing to protect the edge of a platform, roof, or bridge--called also parapet wall -- par.a.pet.ed adj