orant

[ awr-uhnt, ohr- ]

noun

, Fine Arts.

1. a representation of a female figure, with outstretched arms and palms up in a gesture of prayer, in ancient and early Christian art.

Word History and Origins

Origin of orant¹

1895–1900; < Medieval Latin ōrant- (stem of ōrāns ), present participle of ōrāre to plead. See oration, -ant

Example Sentences

Orant, ō′rant, n. a worshipping figure in ancient Greek and early Christian art.

From Project Gutenberg

Decol′orant, a substance that bleaches or removes colour.—v.t.

From Project Gutenberg

Corrob′orant, Corrob′orative, tending to confirm.—n. that which corroborates.—ns.

From Project Gutenberg

What makes Cleveland Curator William Wixom overjoyed with his new sculptural group is that it also shows Jonah in idyllic repose under the gourd vine, and includes a freestanding orant, probably Jonah, which Wixom calls "one of the most moving depictions of a figure in prayer in the entire history of art."

From Time Magazine Archive

Si adest possibilitas, ut quid orant?

From Project Gutenberg