A position of rest, less fatiguing than that of ‘attention’, in which the soldier stands silent and motionless, much used during reviews; also in extended use.
Origin
Mid 19th century.
Definition of parade rest in US English:
parade rest
noun
Military
A position of rest, less fatiguing than that of ‘attention’, in which the soldier stands silent and motionless, much used during reviews; also in extended use.