passant

American  

[pas-uhnt] / ˈpæs ənt /

adjective

Heraldry.

1. (of a beast) represented as in the act of walking, with one forepaw raised.

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passant British  

/ ˈpæsənt /

adjective

1. (usually postpositive) heraldry (of a beast) walking, with the right foreleg raised

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Etymology

Origin of passant

1375–1425; late Middle English < Middle French, present participle of passer to pass; see -ant

Example Sentences

He neither relies on voiceovers nor films them obliquely à la Polanski, who gives us the poetry en passant.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 14, 2022

Have pretty women, attractive men, guests who are en passant, the flavor of another language.

From Slate • Nov. 6, 2013

I note, en passant, that Wodehouse, an essentially Edwardian writer, must have been familiar with the Beatrix Potter story for children, "The Tale of Pigling Bland".

From The Guardian • Jan. 7, 2013

After errors by both sides, declarer came out on top with the aid of a coup en passant at Trick 12.

From New York Times • Mar. 24, 2010

Guenever looked upon the six lioncels passant regardant —they were marching along with red tongues and daws, winking pertly over their backsides and waving their flame- tipped tails.

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White