Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Pursuivant \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.

Pursuivant \Pur"sui*vant\, v. t.
   To pursue. [Obs. & R.]

         Their navy was pursuivanted after with a horrible
         tempest.                                 --Fuller.