an ancient Persian measure, different at different times, and in different places; being usually 30, sometimes 40, and sometimes 50 stadia or furlongs.—The word, according to Littleton, has its rise from parasch angarius, q. d. the space a postman rides from one station, angaria, to another.

PARASCENIUM in the Grecian and Roman theatres, was a place behind the scenes whither the actors withdrew to dress and undress themselves. The Romans more frequently called it Postscenium. See THEATRE.