pursuivant Meaning, Definition & Usage

Pur"sui*vant noun

Etymology

F. poursuivant, fr. poursuivre. See Pursue, and cf. Pursuant.

Definitions

1. (Heralds' College) A functionary of lower rank than a herald, but discharging similar duties; -- called also pursuivant at arms; an attendant of the heralds. Also used figuratively.

   The herald Hope, forerunning Fear, And Fear, the pursuivant of Hope. Longfellow.

2. The king's messenger; a state messenger.

   One pursuivant who attempted to execute a warrant there was murdered. Macaulay.

Pur"sui*vant transitive verb

Definitions

1. To pursue. Obs. & R.

   Their navy was pursuivanted after with a horrible tempest. Fuller.