\Pur"sui*vant\, 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.
         The herald Hope, forerunning Fear, And Fear, the
         pursuivant of Hope.                   --Longfellow.
2. The king's messenger; a state messenger.
         One pursuivant who attempted to execute a warrant
         there was murdered.                   --Macaulay.

\Pur"sui*vant\, v. t.
To pursue. [Obs. & R.]
      Their navy was pursuivanted after with a horrible
      tempest.                                 --Fuller.