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.