Parole
Etymology
From French “parole” (word, speech), specifically “parole d’honneur” — word of honor — because a prisoner was released on the strength of their promise. It descends from Latin “parabola” (a comparison or speech), by way of Greek, the very same root as “parable” and “palaver.” Parole is, literally, freedom granted on one’s word.
noun · /puh-ROHL/
The early, supervised release of a prisoner who has served part of their sentence, conditional on good behavior.
What it names
Getting out early on a leash of conditions — reach for it to distinguish supervised freedom after prison from the sentence itself.
Example
He was granted parole after seven years, but a single missed check-in could send him back.
Related idea
The pair people mix up: parole is early release from prison after serving time, while probation is a sentence served in the community instead of prison in the first place.