Definition of parches:
(v) :
(transitive) To dry to extremity; to shrivel with heat.
(v) :
(transitive, colloquial) To make very thirsty.
(v) :
(transitive) To burn the surface of, to scorch.
(v) :
(transitive) To roast, as dry grain.
(v) :
(intransitive) To become superficially burnt; to become sunburned.
(n) :
The condition of being parched.