The term 'PARA' is a prefix for the word 'CHUTE, ' which is a French word meaning 'FALL.' The prefix 'para' is derived from the Greek word 'para, ' meaning 'beside, near, or beyond.' This prefix is commonly used to describe objects that are related to falling, such as parachutes and skydiving. It can also be used to describe objects that are related to air travel, such as paragliders and paratroopers.