Parthian noun & adjective. ['pɑ:Ɵɪǝn] ME.
[from Parthia (see below) + -AN.]
A. noun.
1. A native or inhabitant of Parthia, an ancient kingdom in the north-east of present-day Iran. ME.

2. The Iranian language or script of the Parthians. M20.
b. adjective.
1. Of or pertaining to Parthia or the Parthians. L16.

2. [After the custom of Parthian horsemen of firing missiles backward while in real or pretended retreat.] Designating a glance, remark, etc., delivered by a person at the moment of departure. Cf. PARTING shot. L19.
■ C. Hare And with this Parthian shot the historian withdrew.

[TahlilGaran] English Dictionary ▲