Pronunciation: [pˈasənt] (IPA) 
The word "passant" is spelled with the letter "s" instead of a "c" due to its French origin. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is /ˈpæsənt/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound, /æ/. The "s" in the middle of the word is pronounced as a /z/ sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a short "uh" sound, /ənt/. "Passant" is often used in heraldry to describe a heraldic animal walking with one foot raised.
Passant is an adjective with its origins in the French language. It is commonly used in the realm of heraldry, referring to a position of an animal in a coat of arms. The term describes an animal depicted in a walking posture, typically with the right foreleg raised and the others touching the ground. This position signifies movement and dynamism, symbolizing progress and forward motion.
In the field of heraldry, the term "passant" is used to specify the position of an animal in a particular coat of arms, providing a descriptive element to distinguish it from other positions such as rampant (standing on hind legs) or couchant (lying down). One might come across terms like "lion passant" or "deer passant" when describing a coat of arms, meaning that the respective animal is positioned as if it is walking.
Outside heraldry, the term passant is occasionally employed in traditional art forms or literary works to depict motion. It conveys the idea of an animal or person in motion, creating an impression of life and activity in a static medium. The characteristic posture of an animal depicted passant signifies vitality and progression, often representing qualities like courage, determination, or readiness for action.
In summary, passant is an adjective used primarily in heraldry to describe the position of an animal in a coat of arms. It denotes an animal in a walking posture, with one foreleg raised and the others touching the ground, conveying a sense of movement, progress, and dynamism.
In her., applied to a lion or other animal in a shield which appears to walk leisurely.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "passant" comes from the Old French "passer" which means "to pass". It is derived from the Latin word "passare", meaning "to walk or step". In the context of heraldry, "passant" describes an animal in a walking position with its right forepaw raised. The term originated in Middle English and has remained in use since the Middle Ages.
