regardant
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective (Heraldry):
- Looking backward: Describes a creature, typically a lion or other heraldic beast, depicted in profile with its head turned to look over its shoulder toward the rear.
Usage
- The term is used almost exclusively in the formal, descriptive language of heraldry (the system of designing coats of arms). It specifies the posture of an animal on a shield or crest.
- It is a postpositive adjective, meaning it is placed after the noun it describes (e.g., "a lion regardant").
Examples
- The family crest features a lion regardant.
- In the coat of arms, the wyvern is depicted regardant, as if guarding the rear.
Advanced Usage
- "Regardant" vs. "Guardant": In heraldry, an animal "guardant" has its full face turned to the viewer, while an animal "regardant" looks backward over its shoulder in profile.
- The posture can imply vigilance, caution, or a defensive watch over the past.
Variants and Related Words
- Regard (verb): To look at or consider.
- Regarding (preposition): Concerning; with respect to.
Synonyms
- Looking back
- Retrospective (in a broader, non-heraldic sense)
Antonyms
- Passant (walking and looking forward, in profile)
- Rampant (rearing up on one hind leg)
- Guardant (facing the viewer)