Definition
To switch off the transponder, for example, because it is interfering with the radar system.
Origins
From parrot (“(aviation, slang) transponder”). “Parrot” was the British codename for the identification friend or foe system on World War II aircraft which used transponders.
In Context
- "If you fly jets, you know what it means to strangle the parrot (turning off the transponder that identifies aircraft as friendly or hostile) and that the howgozit is a dial that shows how much fuel is left."
- "Over the radio, Kincaid heard the sounds of flights into the north: Air Force pilots talking to one another. […] Davis broke in with a radio call. “We strangle the parrot in five minutes.” Kincaid grinned. It meant that they would be turning off the IFF equipment."
- "He had acquired a grey parrot on a trip to Africa and en route back to the UK, air traffic gave instructions to strangle the parrot, meaning of course switch off the identification, friend or foe (IFF) (codeword 'parrot'). Woobs feigned righteous indignation at this cruel command!"
Opposite In Meaning
- squawk the parrot