n. [ F. poursuivant, fr. poursuivre. See Pursue, and cf. Pursuant. ] [ Written also poursuivant. ] 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. [ 1913 Webster ]

The herald Hope, forerunning Fear,
And Fear, the pursuivant of Hope. Longfellow. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. The king's messenger; a state messenger. [ 1913 Webster ]

One pursuivant who attempted to execute a warrant there was murdered. Macaulay. [ 1913 Webster ]

v. t. To pursue. [ Obs. & R. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

Their navy was pursuivanted after with a horrible tempest. Fuller. [ 1913 Webster ]