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 any thing flying in the air, as a banner floatant, or displayed.… It is likewise applicable to any thing 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.
