volant
[adjective]
Synonyms: agile, active, brisk, catty, lively, nimble, sprightly, spry, yare, zippy

[TahlilGaran] English Synonym Dictionary ▲

volant adjective & noun. ['vǝʊlǝnt] E16.
[French, pres. pple of voler fly, from Latin volare: see -ANT¹.]
A. adjective.
1. Hist. volant piece, an addition to the front of a helmet as a protection for the face, used esp. in tournaments. E16.

2. Military. Of a body of troops etc.: capable of rapid movement or action. M16-M17.

3. Heraldry. Of a bird etc.: flying; having the wings expanded as if in flight. L16.

4. Passing rapidly through the air or space, as if by flight; floating lightly in the air. E17.
b. Moving rapidly or lightly; active, nimble. M17.

5. Flying; able to fly, capable of flight. M17.

6. Of the nature of or characterized by flight. E19.

7. Flounced, frilled. E20.
b. noun.
1. The state or position of remaining undecided or uncommitted between two parties, sides, or opinions. Chiefly in act the volant, keep the volant. Only in M18.

2. A volant piece. rare. M19.

3. A flounce on a dress, a frill. M19.

4. = VOLET. rare. L19.

■ volantly adverb L19.

[TahlilGaran] English Dictionary ▲