a. Her. [ad. Fr. flottant, pres. pple. of flotter to float.] (See quot. 1828.)
1610. Guillim, Heraldry, III. xxvi. (1611), 183. He beareth, Azure, an Harpey with her wings disclosed, her Haire flotant, Or, Armed of the same.
1828–40. Berry, Encycl. Her., I. Flotant, a term used in blazon to express anything flying in the air, as a banner floatant, or displayed—it is likewise applicable to anything swimming.
1868. Cussans, Her., vii. 105. They are usually tied in base with ribbon, the ends flotant, and always erect, so as to appear as circles.
