Definition

A person who follows or serves another, often in a formal or official capacity, such as an officer in heraldry.

Example

The pursuivant presented the royal decree to the assembly.

Conversation

Did you know that in some old traditions, a pursuivant is like an assistant to a herald?

Really? I had no idea those roles even existed!

Yeah, they help with ceremonial duties and are kind of like the herald's right-hand person.

That sounds interesting! I wonder if there are any modern equivalents.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pursuivant → It is formed from 'pursuivre' (from Old French, meaning to pursue) and the suffix '-ant' (indicating an agent or one who performs an action). The word 'pursuivant' refers to one who pursues or follows, often used in a heraldic context to describe a junior officer of arms.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'pursuing' ('pursuivre') something, and the '-ant' means they are the one doing the pursuing. This helps you remember that a 'pursuivant' is someone who follows or pursues.

Visually Confused Words