passant

[ pas-uhnt ]

adjective

, Heraldry.

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

passant

/ ˈpæsənt /

adjective

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of passant¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of passant¹

C14: from Old French, present participle of passer to pass

Example Sentences

“You don’t need to know anything about Aristophanes and ancient Greece to engage in the festival. You can, en passant, find out about these things.”

From New York Times

En passant it’s worth noting that it’s not that long ago since publishers convinced themselves that Facebook was the future.

From The Guardian

En passant, Mr Hollande admitted to having authorised four targeted killings by the French secret services.

From Economist

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 Literature

While he said that a deal was possible by the end of the week, German EU Commissioner Guenter Oettinger cautioned that “Greece’s challenges are too big to be solved ‘en passant.’”

From Washington Times